MovieChat Forums > Up (2009) Discussion > How much did the power of Up hinge on th...

How much did the power of Up hinge on the montage shown at the start?

posted 10 years ago by Flabulous
7 replies | jump to latest

*Spoilers*

I get the feeling that a film's ending note can play a large part in its overall success. Granted, the end of Up struck a bittersweet chord in its audience: the image of the house sat atop a waterfall served both as a symbol of deep grief but also of the redemptive qualities that an adventure can have in overcoming grief-related cynicism. This is heartfelt storytelling at its finest. We’re talking $700 million fine. But, as the symbol’s meaning and power can only be pre-loaded by earlier events, how much do you think the film’s overall power and aftertaste hinged on the short but exquisitely executed ‘married life’ montage at the start?

Thoughts? Guesses?

[–] TxMike 10 years ago

It is a movie. An animated movie. There is no benefit in trying to analyze it to that detail. The old man had dreams, hopes, and they were fulfilled in the end. It brought a smile to our faces, that is all it was supposed to do.

..*.. TxMike ..*..
Make a choice, to take a chance, to make a difference.

[–] Flabulous 10 years ago

Mike, again, I'm flattered you've decided to become my number one follower ;)

Analyzing with those tools, I agree, there's no point. But it's ok if you don't have tools with which to provide further insight.

[–] TxMike 10 years ago

Your attempts at clever wisecracking are getting old. What are you, 13 years old?

..*.. TxMike ..*..
Make a choice, to take a chance, to make a difference.

[–] Flabulous 10 years ago

But it's true, no? You couldn't add anything to the discussion because - as you demonstrated - your analsyis tools were blunt

[–] TxMike 10 years ago

Tools don't get blunt, spears, nails, and arrowheads get blunt. Tools are sharp and stay sharp. I would describe your writing as a product of a blunt nail.

..*.. TxMike ..*..
Make a choice, to take a chance, to make a difference.

[–] greatattractor-1 10 years ago

I think the opening montage had a lot to do with the film's emotional depth and how much it affected the rest of the story..and us. Without it, it would still've been a good film, just not a great one.

[–] Flabulous 10 years ago

Agreed. Walt Disney said that for every laugh there should be a tear. I think the tragedy counterbalances the comedy to make this film fun and also touching.