Review of Up in the Air (2009) by Alex J — 06 Oct 2013

In my view, a film worthy of being a great classic of our time, Up in the Air tells the story of Ryan Bingam (George Clooney), a charismatic yet detached 'efficiency expert', travelling across America, firing people for a living.

Slick and status-obsessed, Ryan's systematic and smooth going lifestyle among the executive lounges is rocked by the entrance of his female counterpart, Alex (Vera Famiga), and buddying efficiency expert, Natalie (Anna Kendrick).

Through his relationship with the two women, Ryan's inner wall begins to crumble. The cast is superb with strong performances from the three leads as well as memorable supporting characters including Ryan's nagging sister (Amy Morton) and his quick-witted boss, played by Jason Bateman.

I think the film's sound track is beautifully selected and is very nostalgic at times. This film explores the catastrophic pace of our modern lives and its consequences as well as the need for love and family to sustain us through each day.

What is very effective and heartfelt in the film is the use actual people who were sacked in the wake of the GFC to play characters who were fired in the film. Jason Reitman has again delivered the goods.