Up In The Air

There are several things that are “up in the air” in this Jason Reitman dramedy: 1) George Clooney’s character, Ryan Bingham, who practically lives in airplanes as he flies from city to city as a corporate downsizer; 2) people’s futures, as they are fired; 3) and any number of relationships in the movie. Bingham meets and has a relationship with another frequent flyer (Vera Farmiga), when he gets the news that he may be grounded. The downsizing company may ditch face-to-face firings in favor of an internet approach suggested by Ivy League grad Natalie Keener (Anna Kendrick). It’s up to Bingham to show Keener the ropes and prove his air travel hasn’t been in vain.

The ClearPlay Factor

Up in the Air was rated R for “language and some sexual content.” There are scenes of nudity and implied sex that have been cut from the ClearPlayed version, as well as 50 to 60 instances of language. Thematically, it may still be a tough film for kids, as issues of commitment, infidelity, casual sex and suicide are alluded to.

Thumbs Up or down?…

Up in the Air is an outstanding movie that deserved its Oscar nomination for Best Picture. A deft look at relationships and the baggage we carry, with some wonderful performances by main and supporting actors and several surprises along the way, carry this movie into the wild blue yonder.

Marty Nabhan—ClearPlay Co-pilot

Rated R for language and some sexual content.; 109 min; Directed By Jason Reitman