What do you think of when you hear the words “exploration” and “adventure?” Exotic locales, dinosaur bones, maybe an Indiana Jones style leather jacket? What if we told you the biggest, best adventures are right under your nose? No, we’re not talking about that mustache you’ve been working on for the last six months. We’re talking about your own life, your daily grind, your… Well, you get it. The message of Up is that happiness lies in the little moments you share with the people who matter most, like having a donut fight with your sister or teaching your grandpa how to breakdance. Adventure isn’t just out there, it’s in your own backyard. All you have to do is grab a couple of pals and go explore it.
Questions about Exploration
- How are Carl and Muntz’s motivations for exploration different? How are they similar?
- Why do you think “the boring stuff” with his dad is the stuff that Russell remembers the most?
- How are the concepts of exploration and adventure conveyed through the montage of Carl and Ellie’s marriage?
Chew on This
Carl’s had his greatest adventure before Up even starts: his marriage to Ellie.
Carl’s greatest discovery on his quest for Paradise Falls is the strength of his own heart.