Emotional and exhilarating

Rating: 8/10 (19 July 2009)

The opening sequence is the most powerfully emotional image in a long time; for any genre of movie, let alone an animated family film. It does bring a tear to the eye, and may be too sad and intense for children to take. Taken at its intent to show a once happy man's loneliness as a foundation for the story line that follows or taken as too strong a message will probably determine if you like this movie or not.
I did. The central character, Carl, is a very likable guy, and can be sympathized with immediately. The boy scout kid represents what Carl feels he has lost, and the adventure is his effort to reclaim it. There's a great feeling of freedom and escape when the house zooms out to the sky, and an eagerness to see things along with this good man as he embarks on his journey.
It's a great ride, both literally and figuratively. The visions of the animators of what the world looks like from this unlikely dirigible is authentic, beautiful, and inspiring. Colors are used vigorously and with astonishing precision. The overall look of the film is simply wonderful. The enormous Grand Canyon like precipices in Carl's South American Shangri La type destination almost appear as a dream scape. One example of the creative imagination in the movie is when the hero carries a giant object along, strapped to his chest--I hope I get to do that one day.
As for characters, most are fun although not always essential. The dogs and their human-like gifting is the stuff of great humor. The mythical creature was a nice touch. My only criticism of the movie would be the choice of villain. Someone who should have been a fast friend for Carl since they think the same way is depicted as vengeful, bitter, and vicious. It was too pessimistic a choice; a longer look would have provided a more logical bad guy.
In summary, some visions are very strong emotionally, but the final product is another fun and exhilarating triumph for Pixar.