Writer: Wahiduzzaman

Writer Ratings:
Overall:
Cast:
Plot:
Effects: NA
Cinematography:

Watch this if you liked: "Ratatouille", "The Incredibles"

What can one expect from this animation? Are words alone enough? The latest outing from co-director Pete Docter (of "Wall-E" and "Monsters Inc." fame) and Bob Peterson offers great entertainment value for all - it's not just a cute and funny but even manages to have some soul to it!

Characters-wise, the story provides a balance between the good and the bad. With cute and witty characters (namely Russell, Carl, Kevin and Dug) the film is likely to tickle your funny bone with its natural delivery. The dark ones like Muntz and Alpha play their roles well. Even the young Carl and Ellie who only appear in the first 15 minutes are remarkable and hilarious. However the standout character goes to Russell for his cute and jovial self. It's spot on and definitely amusing.

The heart of this movie lies in the story and its brilliant screenplay (also by said duo), one that is even and smooth all the way to the end. It's not just the gags and laughter but the meaningful drama that underpins it. The same cannot be said of typical animated features that go for fast-paced fun and games. Imagine the experience of watching Sean Penn's "I Am Sam", Mel Gibson's "Forever Young" or thousands of other dramas in animation form. It's touching and entertaining at the same time. This is what "Up" has got to offer.

With no slapstick or cheesy lines, you'll feel so connected to the adventure so this makes it the perfect family movie to get everyone in on. We can put it down as a value-for-money combo of action, drama, adventure and comedy that deserves all the praise it can get. Perhaps it's not even too much to name it as Disney/Pixar's best to date!

Cinema Online, 12 August 2009