Milestone Years
- 15th Anniversary: May 29, 2024
- 20th Anniversary: May 29, 2029
- 25th Anniversary: May 29, 2034
- 30th Anniversary: May 29, 2039
Inspiration Behind the Movie
The film was inspired by the desire to explore a story of aging, adventure, and emotional depth. Director Pete Docter and the Pixar team wanted to create a unique tale that balanced whimsy with loss, drawing from classic adventure films and the image of a house soaring through the sky on balloons.
You Might Not Know
- The house would need over 20 million balloons to actually lift off—Pixar used about 10,000 for effect.
- The character of Carl was partly inspired by actor Spencer Tracy.
- Russell was modeled after a real-life Boy Scout.
- Up was the first animated film to open the Cannes Film Festival.
- The tearjerking “Married Life” sequence was nearly dialogue-free and took months to perfect.
Food Ideas
- Balloon cake pops in bright colors
- “Adventure is out there!” trail mix
- Grape soda floats (a nod to Ellie’s badge)
- Cloud-shaped sugar cookies
- Wilderness Explorer sandwich wraps
Release Date: May 29, 2009
Summary:
Elderly widower Carl Fredricksen fulfills a lifelong dream by tying thousands of balloons to his house and flying to South America. Unexpectedly joined by a young Wilderness Explorer named Russell, Carl embarks on a journey filled with talking dogs, floating homes, and rediscovered purpose.
Genre(s) and MPAA Rating: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, PG
Key Cast Members:
- Ed Asner
- Jordan Nagai
- Christopher Plummer
- Bob Peterson
- Delroy Lindo
Ways to Celebrate
- Make and wear your own “Grape Soda” badge
- Build a DIY balloon bouquet for decoration
- Write an “Adventure Book” journal of your own dreams
- Host a costume party with guests as Carl, Russell, or Dug
- Pause the movie to talk about what makes a great adventure
Filming Locations
- As an animated film, Up was produced entirely at Pixar Animation Studios
- Paradise Falls was inspired by Angel Falls in Venezuela
- Research trips to South America helped designers capture the dramatic, exotic look of Carl’s destination