Director: Jason Reitman
Writer: Jason Reitman
Cast: George Clooney, Jason Bateman, Vera Farmiga
Synopsis: George Clooney stars as Ryan Bingham, a corporate downsizing expert whose cherished life on the road is threatened just as he is on the cusp of reaching ten million frequent flyer miles and just after he’s met the frequent-traveler woman of his dreams. Life is changing against his will and out of his control. How will he handle it?
Pros: George Clooney plays George Clooney (as always) as a character at the top of his career game, however flawed personally. Reitman is brave enough to depart from the typical predictable Hollywood story arc, and delivers a funny, tragic, real look at interpersonal relationships. For Vera Farmiga this is likely her most desirable character since Meet Joe Black (then opposite Brad Pitt).
Cons: Not too much to report in terms of cons. Anna Kendrick as rising corporate star Natalie Keener plays the part adequately except her breakdown scene in which she’s caused to cry. It didn’t play well. Other than that…
Overall: This was an enjoyable film from beginning to end. The performances of Clooney, Farmiga, and Bateman are as believable as the characters they portray. There is enough humor to balance the bitter realities of the story which makes for an all around win. Put this film on your list to see. You’ll be having discussions about real life topics for days after.
0 responses to “Review: “Up in the Air””
A lot of the movie was predictable to me (I won’t spoil this for those who have not seen it) but I still enjoyed it. Ana/Natalie was a definite bright spot in the entire film. Her interpretation of her character enhanced the piece a great deal.
Cute date night movie… not too heavy… not much to spark an argument about later to keep you from getting the goodnight kiss…
I wouldn’t say a lot of the movie but there definitely was a major predictable moment in the movie to me. I still enjoyed it. It can start a conversation towards people’s lack of human contact these days.