Doesn't quite take off

Rating: 6/10 (19 December 2010)

Recap: Growing up, both Carl and Ellie idolize Charles Muntz, a world famous explorer. But after a mission to Paradise Falls, Muntz falls out of grace after a retrieved bird skeleton is accused of being a fake. Muntz goes away to capture a live specimen, and Carl and Ellie continues with their life, growing up, marrying each other and growing old together. But when Ellie dies, and old Carl is left alone, the dreams of their adventure awakens again. Carl wow that he shall fly their house, with a lot of helium filled balloons, to Paradise Falls. By accident Russell, a kid scout, happens to come along, being trapped on the porch as Carl lifts off. But as they arrive at Paradise Falls, they discover that the hunt for the mysterious bird is still on.
Comments: A rather sweet comedy, but ironically it never takes off and lifts to the heights that previous Pixar movies do. This time it seems that, somewhat in the spirit of the movie, they have focused more upon the adventure part of the movie than the comedy. But comedy, especially comedy that works for people of all ages, are Pixar's strength, and I think the movie lacks some of that strength. Especially knowing what Pixar can do.
One guess on my part, is that like many others released in the new 3D format recently, a little too much focus has been given to make a visual treat over perfecting a good story. But effects can only augment a story, not build it. And for me, the characters didn't quite work out. Carl is a little bit too grumpy and Russell is just too annoying at times. And they being the main characters, it is a problem when they don't quite work out. However, supporting characters Dug and actually and especially Kevin save part of it.
Up is good, mostly a sweet movie, funny at times. But it is not hilarious. Pixar has done better, and I expect better in the future.
6/10