Up in the Air

Plot

Ryan Bingham, is a middle-aged man who works for an outsource company who other companies hire when they need to downsize and fire staff.

His life is on the road, and spends more days in hotels than he does in his own home. He is a company man, who loves his life of solitude, and lives to work.

In the lead up to his sisters’ wedding, two women enter his life; the likeminded Alex – who he shares a connection with – and the idealistic Natalie – who ‘works to live’ and wants the husband and marriage.

She wants to make his on the road life redundant – instead doing the job over video conference. He decides to show her what he does, and her more positive attitude – starts to have an impact on him, but will it be with Alex?

Direction

Directed by the Jason Reitman (son of the legendary Ivan), this is a smartly directed film. While there are no ‘amazing’ shots to really notice – it is sound work that scored Reitman an Oscar nod for it.

Cast/Characters

George Clooney plays the role of Ryan, and it is clear the role was written for him. His smooth-talking suave performance could only have really been done by a handful of actors.

Vera Farmiga as Alex, bring both a maturity and honesty about her – she is as career driven as Ryan, but gives across hope for more, something Ryan has never thought of.

It is Anna Kendrick’s Natalie that really opens them both up to more. Her youthful outlook on life, on these two almost cynical ‘grown ups’ helps them grow. All three of these cast were Oscar nominated, and it’s clear why.

Jason Bateman, Melanie Lynskie, Danny McBride, JK Simmons and Zach Galifinakis all appear in small roles.

Screenplay/Setting/Themes

Ironically funny at times, but this is what gives the film its strength. The take on love, relationships and growing up is front and centre. Ryan having never had or wanted a long-term commitment – feels like he is ready following his growing feelings for Alex. He has always been alone but never lonely – and this has changed for him.

There are some motivational and poignant speeches throughout (like Ryan’s backpack analogy), and some profound moments between one scene characters – especially in JK Simmons scene.

Overall

A lovely film, with a solid 3^rd act twist with one of the characters. Give this one a watch.

4/5