Pixar's "Up" demonstrates lifelong learning
There aren't too many films that cast seniors as main characters, but Pixar's "Up" is an exception to the rule – and it's also one of the best films around when it comes to lifelong learning.
The film opens with a truly heartbreaking montage that shows the main character Carl Fredricksen (voiced by Ed Asner) as a young boy, obsessed with exploring and adventure. He meets a young girl who shares similar passions. As the montage moves on, the two children grow up, get married, and attempt to start a family together. However, the wife eventually falls ill and dies, leaving Fredericksen alone.
In the present day, Fredricksen is a grumpy old man who refuses to interact with anybody, including a Boy Scout, Russell, who frequently knocks on his door. The loss of his wife somewhat explains Fredericksen's disposition, but he's still colder then he needs to be. Remembering the life dream that he and his wife had (to go to South America), Fredericksen ties thousands of balloons to his house and lifts off into the sky. Unfortunately for him, Russell was standing on the front porch at the time, and the unlikely duo are soon South American-bound.
The adventure that unfolds from there is whimsical and fun, as the two learn how to cope with each other and work together. Much of the humor in the film comes from Russell's boundless enthusiasm contrasted with Fredericksen's crotchety retorts. As the film goes on, however, Fredericksen's cold exterior melts and he comes to care for the boy.
"Up" is a prime example of lifelong learning in that the main character learns how to change his ways even after it seemed he would be grumpy for the rest of his life
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