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A witty, independent dramedy that stirs all emotions, contains extremely relevant social commentary and is driven by one of the best stars of all time can only mean that it’s Oscar season.
A definite nominee this season, Jason Reitman’s “Up in the Air” looks at the life of a charming yet detached man (played with unsurpassed charisma by the silvery, foxy George Clooney) whose job entails flying across the U.S. to fire employees. Corporate downsizing is a sad, true reality in today’s brutal economy that the film explores.
Clooney dazzles as Ryan, a man away from home who lives his life through his travels and carries his life in a carry-on suitcase. He frequently inhabits the skies and carries his “frequent flyer” status with too much pride. He reluctantly takes on a new co-worker as his pupil and teaches her the harsh realities of his dark job. Along the way, he begins a romance with an attractive woman who reflects his personality in a women’s body.
The supporting actresses each give Oscar worthy performances. Vera Farmiga gives a “sharp as nails” performance as Alex, a fellow frequent flyer free of emotional commitment. Contrasting both of the leads is Anna Kendrick, who plays the young employee brought onboard for her technologically savvy ideas. Both actresses compliment Clooney with believable chemistry and memorable group scenes.
Much like his previous “Juno,” director Jason Reitman takes on a serious topic with lighthearted comedy, never losing the severity and drama of the situation. The pace is always smooth and strangely enough, so is the tone. Also like Juno, this film’s punch lies not in the directing but in his lightning paced script, leaving viewers entranced at this rather simple story.
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