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What do you get when you take one grumpy old man, one lonely little boy, and one maniacal villain and mix them together with a flight of fantasy that stirs the imagination and the soul? Disney-Pixar's latest hit, "Up."

In this movie, you meet Carl, a grieving old man who has lost the love of his life and plans to fulfill a long-overdue promise he made to her. His "simple" flight becomes complicated, though, when the persistent Russel (an anxious "Wilderness Scout" longing to complete his sash badges) ends up on Carl's front porch, an unwilling and unwelcomed traveling companion. But under his gruff exterior, Carl is a good man, so he eventually invites Russel into his adventure. This trip leads them both into the depths of South America, searching for their dreams. However, like most great stories, they unexpectedly discover so much more.

Following the tradition of fantastic Pixar movies like "Toy Story" and "The Incredibles," "Up" is an integrally woven combination of story, animation, effects, and laughs. "Up" provides an engaging story line for kids and adults alike. It gives you well-rounded characters that grow and change, a hero-turned-villain to dislike, and adorable "side" characters that round out the story. "Up's" side-protagonist is Dug, the talking dog, who tells jokes that are not funny and offers his loyalty to masters who do not like him. Still, his heroic heart eventually wins them - and the audience - over. Add to that "Kevin," the rare bird that is the source of Charles Muntz's (the villain) obsession, and you have a tale that winds its way around the viewers heart and imagination like the Amazon.

There are intense and scary scenes in "Up," which makes it a better adventure movie, but might frighten younger viewers.The sadness and grief that leads Carl to begin his adventure (the loss of his wife of many years) and Russel to crave Carl's acceptance (his dad leaving the family) are geared toward adults and older children, and will bring tears to most anyone - including the group of teens I saw the movie with.

Like most Pixar offerings, "Up" is a visual feast. It's stunning animation is what you've come to expect from Pixar, but "Up" pushes the limits and gives you the actual sensation of flying along with the unlikely traveling companions. In our area, "Up" is offered both in the traditional format, as well as "HD 3D," an experience that greatly enhances all aspects of the movie. Unlike traditional 3-D movies that "pop" out at you, the 3-D in "Up" rounds the movie, pulling the audience into the action rather than throwing the action at the viewers.

Add to this winning combination the voice talents of such greats as Edward Asner (Carl), Christopher Plumber (Charles) and John Ratzenberger, and "Up" becomes another instant family favorite from Pixar.

"Up" is an excellent choice for the kick-off of the summer movie viewing season. It's well-rounded, well-balanced platform is great for the entire family, and it leaves you feeling, well, "Up" about the entire experience. Don't miss it!

Learn more about this author, Gina Lawton.
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