Movie Review: "Up in the Air"

Up in the Air

Directed by: Jason Reitman

Starring: George Clooney, Vera Farmiga, Anna Kendrick, Jason Bateman

Rated: R for language and some sexual content

Jason Reitman’s previous two films have spawned a market of creative and witty comedies. However, Reitman’s newest film Up in the Air loses the glitz and glamour of his previous films, yet is still as creative, witty, and even more powerful than his previous works. It follows Ryan Bingham (George Clooney), a man who’s job (firing people for a living) is as heartless as his personal philosophy (homes and relationships are detrimental to one’s life). Both of these aspects of Bingham’s life are challenged when he is assigned a partner (the youthful Anna Kendrick, who is spectacular) to learn from Bingham. Underneath it’s simple exterior, Up in the Air is a deep, philosophical film. Reitman deals with specific issues, such as the failures of communication in today’s society, as well as broad themes, such as the meaning and purpose of relationships. And, although it does promote existential thinking, it doesn’t glorify it, like last year’s film Benjamin Button. In fact, Reitman’s conclusion that relationships are connected to the meaning of life (a half truth) is almost negated by different characters throughout the film who are confused, dissatisfied, and even disloyal in their relationships. On this level, Reitman is even wiser than he intended. What his intentions convey, Up in the Air captures more than Reitman’s wit and creativity: it captures the highs and lows of humanity.