The Verdict: Up

This past week I was able to see "Up," and I have to say Pixar have outdone themselves this time. Not since Toy Story has Pixar made such a playful and creative movie, I mean who else comes up with a flying house by hanging from thousands of balloons? In the beginning you meet a young boy named Carl who idolizes world adventurer Charles Muntz . Carl later meets a young girl named Ellie who also idolizes and pretends she is Charles Muntz. Without giving too much of the story away Carl promises Ellie they will go and live at Paradise Island where their idol, Charles Muntz was known to travel to. Carl grows old and decides to fly his house with balloons to Paradise Island and thus the adventure begins. Along the journey you meet Russell, a young boy scout who is a stowaway on Carl's house. As the movie goes on you notice that a lot of this movie's strength comes from it's distinct characters, whether it be old Carl, young Russell, or even talking dogs, these characters grab your attention and have you wrapped up in their conflicts and aspirations. The unlikely duo of Carl and Russell is a fresh character relationship not seen in many movies, which contrasts the young and the elderly in a very funny and enjoyable way. With any Pixar movie "Up" has superb 3D animation. The movie is also in 3D and all though things to do not necessarily come out at you, the addition of the 3D glasses gives the movie a high amount of clarity. The music in this movie is excellent too, every moment whether it is happy or sad you can feel it. Up is definitely a summer movie that anybody can enjoy. I give "Up" 5 out of 5 *'s. <('.'<)