Never have I cried within the first 10 minutes of an animation…but UP did it to me! GOSH. Even though there’s so many hilarious moments in the film, tears still flow( I shall use a pail when I watch it again) when Carl saw the final note from Ellie, to thank him for the adventure of their marriage, and to encourage him to go on an adventure of his own. Carl finally relinquished the house, realizing that the wonderful memories, not the possessions, was all he needed to remember Ellie. He already had her ingrained in his heart. With that, he moved on to touch other people’s lives. =]Hats off to the director, for imparting such poignant lessons of life.
Just when I thought WALL-E’s robotic version of otaku meets sassy girl was unbeatable. UP came to break new grounds.
UP is Pixar’s 10th feature film and definitely at its best (credits to its nostalgic soundtrack too). I must say unapologetically, that their films are a cut above the rest (not comparing animations from other countries).
Behind the radical approach and creativity, one sees Pixar’s commitment to tell good stories illustrating simple yet timeless truths. Pixar films are incredibly funny, sad and wise. You don’t just watch it for a laugh, you’ll learn as well.
On a light hearted note, I sometimes wonder if Pixar’s past works had an indirect impact on me(and friends), subconsciously. I’ll name a few here:
1. Toy story 1 & 2 – perhaps it is a prelude to the birth of the story of Patrick, Eeyore, Da Dong and friends?
2. Monsters, Inc – maybe that’s how I got into the habit of scaring people? =P
3. The Incredibles – is Jac Jac a parallel to Jack Jack?
4. Ratatouille – aptly nicknamed ‘mouse’ for the love of food?
I guess it takes a child in you to appreciate animations. I hope, that these may never depart from me…a childlike sense of wonder…an insatiable curiosity… a vivid imagination and…a spirit for adventure (doesn’t need to be South America)=P
NB: Come get Pixar soundtrack and short films from me, if you wish. =]
