Summer movie recommendation #1

Since the release of Toy Story in 1995, Pixar Animation Studios has consistently been a cut above nearly every other film studio. Over the years, Pixar movies have earned 22 Academy Awards, 4 Golden Globes, and 3 Grammys, just to name a few. The astounding thing, of course, is that all of Pixar's feature films are animated. Far from being "cartoons" in the traditional sense, however, Pixar movies tend to have more depth than many (or even most) Hollywood releases. They tell stories that celebrate values, family, and the childlike wonders of life. They make us think -- inspire us -- make us chuckle, laugh outloud, and even cry.

I've seen all but one of Pixar's ten feature films so far, and I am absolutely convinced that Pixar movies are some of my absolute favorites. If it's Pixar, I will go see it. The films are just that good. The newest addition to the lineup, Up, is no exception. Up tells the story of Carl Fredricksen, a shy but determined boy who has one dream in life: adventure. Enter Ellie, a feisty but kind-hearted tomboy whose life ambition is to move her adventure clubhouse to Paradise Falls, "a land lost in time." Put the two together, and of course, it looks like life will be nothing but a grand adventure. But life isn't always what it seems. Sometimes the rainbow-colored adventure turns to struggle, frustration, and heartbreak. Still, it's never too late for an adventure, right?

Up is an extraordinarily moving and heartwarming tale of love, sacrifice, and determination. It celebrates the beauties of a loving marriage, emphasizes the importance of respecting elders, and rejoices in the simple things of life -- the "boring" things that are quite often the things we remember most, as one of the characters says at one point in the film. Faithfulness is favored, respect is rewarded, and villainy is vanquished in the end.

All in all, Up is the essential family summer movie, and thoroughly deserves every accolade it is receiving from critics and viewers alike. Very highly recommended.