A young Carl Fredrickson meets a young adventure-spirited girl named Ellie. They both dream of going to a lost land in South America. 70 years later Ellie has died. Carl remembers the promise he made to her. Then when he inadvertently hits a construction worker he is forced to go to a retirement home. But before they can take him he and his house fly away. However he has a stowaway aboard an 8-year-old boy named Russell whos trying to get an Assisting the Elderly badge. Together they embark on an adventure where they encounter talking dogs an evil villain and a rare bird named Kevin.
Review
Greetings again from the darkness. Another crackling collaboration of Pixar and Disney and as expected it is touching funny thrilling and amazing to look at and watch. Only a step below Toy Story just because it is not quite as groundbreaking though the story is even better.
While I love technology and effects I am first and foremost a story guy when it comes to movies. This has as good of story as any film you will see. My only caution is that it seems geared towards grownups not kids. The montage of Carl and Ellie growing old together is without dialogue and will probably bore some kids. Their parents certainly won't be bored however as it will resonate with most anyone over age 40 who hasn't taken the time to chase their childhood dreams.
No question this film is a barrage of color and eccentric characters and can even be a bit frightening at times. Still the key to this one are the stories and quests of the elderly Mr. Fredrickson and the young Russell trying to earn his badge of honor. From the beginning Disney has always had a finger on the pulse of youngsters. Here we aren't given the usual Hollywood garbage of brainiac kids who make the adults look stupid. Instead we are given a pudgy slightly goofy kid just trying to get his parents to take note.
Special kudos to Ed Asner for bringing Mr. Fredrickson to life ... in good times and bad. He never goes overboard and is quite often absolutely perfect. Christopher Plummer has a limited role as bad guy Charles Muntz. Or is he really so bad Cast aside by society he has spent his life searching for redemption.
I am not saying the kids won't enjoy but I am saying make sure parents and grandparents tag along. You will be entertained delighted and moved.