Up (2009)
I must admit that as a new parent (I have a precious 16 month old son) I haven’t seen as many animated films as some of my friends. I am sure that in the next ten years I’ll see more than I care to count. If all animated films had the story, wit, and animation as Up, I wouldn’t complain.
This decade Pixar redefined the animated film. No offense to Disney but I’d take a Pixar pick any day over a new Disney film. In my humble opinion, Up is Pixar at the top of their game (no, the pun wasn’t intended).
SQUIRREL!!!
Ed Asner plays the grandfather many of us have, or have had. Beneath a crusty cloaked exterior is the most gentle, loving curmudgeon. The montage depicting his marriage is one of the sweetest, most romantic depictions of a marriage I have ever seen on screen. Even though a word wasn’t spoken, true love and adoration never looked more genuine.
SQUIRREL!!!
The greatest supporting character is Dug. SQUIRREL!!! Dug, as man’s best friend, is both comic and developed as any canine any recent film memory. Be honest, who would you rather spend a Saturday afternoon SQUIRREL!!! with, Dug or Sam (from I am Legend)?
Sorry WALL-E, I’ll take the high road (or sky), and fly upwards…
HONORABLE MENTION PICK – Persopelis. Better than Sin City, WALL-E, and The Incredibles!
ok, ok, my grammarian of a wife has already noticed my mistakes ... my apologies. I must tell you I prefer writing long hand to typing! PS ... Persepolis!!!
ReplyDeletestill a good review
ReplyDeleteI loved the movie, too, and appreciated your take on it...keep them coming!
ReplyDeleteI suppose I will need to watch this one now. I am a fan of loving curmudgeons.
ReplyDeleteI have to say I didn't like Up - Disney movies are supposed to be uplifting, and it was just too sad for me.
ReplyDeleteDon't know if I would say it's the best animated movie of the decade, but The Princess and the Frog is definitely the best of 2009 . . . it's old-school Disney, which I prefer to Pixar.
This past decade was a weak one for Disney - nothing compared to the 90's which gave us Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Lion King. . .
I agree that the 90s were king for Disney. They've definitely taken a back seat this century (so far at least). I do think Up is UP!lifting, however. It is so sweet, with sadness, and that is life...
ReplyDelete