MOVIE REVIEW ... UP IN THE AIR

MOVIE REVIEW ... UP IN THE AIR

Of the many things people dread, losing a job would be one. That awful feeling when the boss gently says it's 'time to go' never really vanishes despite the soft words used. Director Jason Reitman seems to wonder how the person delivering the news feels as his latest explores the human cost of corporate rationalism. Shown in effective broad strokes, each chapter effectively adds another twist to the perils of downsizing.

Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) is a man continually living out of a suitcase. Doing the dirty work of companies afraid in firing employees themselves, Bingham’s charisma gives a nice sheen to bitter news. Into his aimless existence arrives Natalie (Anna Kendrick) a young new co-worker eager to invent a new quicker firing process. Asked to show her the ropes, Bingham begins to question his ideals as the human cost of his actions brings him down to earth. Up In The Air's uncomfortable subject matter hides its timelessness.

Even if some haven't had the 'pleasure' of being fired, we all know others who have and the devastating effects this sometimes bring. What Reitman does so well is in looking at it from the messenger's point of view, with the prepared packages and soothing statements a hallmark of their pitch. In Bingham we almost see an empty shell of a person who, by having no personal attachments, lives a life without any rules. His job is his life and the airport staff are his family as they ferry him to the next anonymous destination.

What's fascinating is how the story turns from the employee's personal traumas to Bingham's own, as he is forced to connect with his real family. These well written and acted scenes powerfully show the depth of how removed he has become from reality. Although graced with a fine ensemble this is definitely Clooney's moment to shine, giving one of his best performances. You almost feel sorry for his character despite his sleazy business, something that may not have been possible if portrayed by someone else.

After Thank You For Smoking and Juno, Jason Reitman's career continues to flourish. His latest magnifies his talents with a screenplay utilising its many possibilities with a fresh originality rarely seen in these days of supersized blockbusters.

Movie Review Rating 8 / 10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

UP IN THE AIR released in Australia on Thursday 14 January 2010

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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

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