Review of Up in the Air (2009) by Alex G — 05 Nov 2012

George Clooney's charm has often been the bright spot of many a film. Up in the air being no exception, however, this film seems to work off of Clooney's charm in a much more tragic sense of the word.

The Good; Low key performances, unique premise, fantastic cinematography, the social commentary and a unique protagonist.

The Bad; two drawn out scenes.

The Good.

The performances in this piece were not over the top nor were they particularly out of the norm or unique, which was exactly what the film needed, a centered in reality, quiet but steady performance from each actor. Especially from the two females in this piece, who's wit and dialogue even out shined Clooney in parts.

The premise of the story was utterly unique and fantastic. And provided for powerful allegory. It is utterly ironic and moving, a man who is everywhere yet feels at home only nowhere.

The up in the air style of filming and the many different set pieces allowed for fantastic cinematography, it was utterly brilliant and beautiful, even the morose Detroit was hauntingly moving.

What was my favorite however was the commentary. A man isolated in society. Are we as Americans becoming detached from one another due to technology and work? How much are we changing the sense of a woman with the demands of work. The job situation and the economic situation in the world. This film makes hard points in a soft way.

This is my favorite performance of Clooney's. Even more so than Danny Ocean. This portrayal is very vulnerable yet confident, jaded in his contentment and an ever changing character until he comes full circle back to square one in the end.

The Bad.

Two scenes were dragged out to the point of taking me out of the piece. The school scene and the party crashing scene, I understood the premise and rational for each scene it is just they outstayed their welcome.

Up In The Air is one of the best in George Clooney's Filmography. And a film that has many, many, many re-viewings to offer due to it's high entertainment value. 8/10.