#34 - Up in the Air (2009)
Great movie to watch on a plane
George Clooney stars as a jet-setting consultant whose job is to travel the country firing people. When his line of work faces disruption from new technology, he’s forced to reevaluate his life. Up in the Air does an excellent job of glamorizing Clooney’s lifestyle as a high-flying executive. His charm shines as we watch him travel with precision, rack up reward points, stay at luxurious hotels, and appear to have life all figured out.
The dynamic shifts when Clooney’s character is assigned a young, idealistic protégé, played by Anna Kendrick. As Kendrick’s character trains under his supervision, she confronts the harsh realities of their profession. The two characters couldn’t be more different—she dreams of the perfect marriage and a stable life, while he prides himself on the freedom that comes from not being tied down by a family or a home. Their ideological clash drives much of the film, and their evolving relationship is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The narrative uses their joint travels to fire employees as a platform to explore their characters. Some firings are played for laughs in montages, while others are deeply emotional, highlighting the humanity of those losing their jobs. One standout moment involves a long-time employee breaking down, a stark reminder of the weight of their work. While the film initially glamorizes Clooney’s career, it gradually reveals the downsides, particularly through his strained relationships with his sisters and his preference for flings over meaningful connections.
One of these flings, played by Vera Farmiga, develops into a relationship that forces Clooney to question his choices. His pursuit of a deeper connection takes a surprising and poignant turn, culminating in a bittersweet realization. The film earns credit for avoiding a stereotypical happy ending, instead leaving viewers with a pit in their stomach as the credits roll.
Clooney’s long-time goal of reaching 10 million air miles—a feat achieved by only six people before him—becomes a metaphor for his life. When he finally accomplishes it, the moment feels hollow, underscoring the idea that personal milestones are meaningless without someone to share them with.
Up in the Air is a film that works equally well as a chill watch or a deep reflection on life’s priorities. And as a bonus, Jason Bateman makes an appearance—and I love him. It received many Oscar nominations including best picture and nominations for all 3 of our actors.
3/4