This Way Up

This Way Up is a heartwarming, yet somewhat dark comedic film that seamlessly combines elements of humor, human emotions and intricate storytelling. Directed by Adam Foulkes and Alan Smith, this critically acclaimed movie was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film and took the world of animation by a storm upon its release.

The movie has a relatively simple plot, but the delicacy with which the story is woven reflects a depth and complexity that is rarely found in animated works of this caliber. The film revolves around the life of two brothers who are running a ‘somewhat unusual’ funeral parlor business. The story unfolds as an ordinary business task turns into a grand roller-coaster ride of epic proportions.

These highly professional undertakers, Lulu and Neds, find themselves embarking on a bizarre journey following a freakish accident. The series of unfortunate events initiates a ripple effect making the duo cross paths with unpredictable situations and characters that they would otherwise never encounter.

With death as a backdrop, the movie straddles the fine line between life, mortality and humor in a surprisingly efficient way. Some viewers might find the subject a bit outlandish or dark. However, the manner in which Foulkes and Smith blend dark humor with poignant emotional moments is truly noteworthy. The film’s unique approach to exploring the themes of death and love redefines traditional storytelling methods and positions it as a standout piece in the realm of short films.

Visual aesthetics and animation techniques used in This Way Up contribute greatly to its allure as well. The creators have employed a style that is quintessentially their brand - a blend of baroque and quirky aesthetics. The characters and the environment seem magical yet grounded, granting the film a unique visual style that significantly enhances the viewer’s experience.

It's worthwhile to note the exceptional character development contained within the short run-time of the film. Though the characters do not have dialogues, their personalities, emotions, fears, and camaraderies are conveyed through subtle gestures, well-crafted facial expressions, and visual cues. This “show, don’t tell” approach inevitably adds a layer of richness to the narrative and attests the creators' command over the visual medium.

The film is packed with satirical elements and absurd comedic twists which are the cornerstone of British humor. Deeply embedded within this fun-filled adventure is an exploration of life in all its various facets, and this is where This Way Up shines. By wrapping profound life lessons in a coat of humor, the movie becomes as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining.

Moreover, the sound design of the film is captivating and creates a unique ambiance for the narrative. The careful use of sound effects, ominous tones, and whimsical music aids in conveying the mood of each scene. It is truly remarkable how the sound design works in tandem with the visuals to push the narration along and amplify the emotional depth of the script.

Lastly, what makes This Way Up particularly special is its ability to take the audience on a unique emotional ride. One cannot help but empathize with the fascinating characters and their nuances, laugh at the darkly comedic elements, and contemplate the insightful commentary on life and death.

In conclusion, This Way Up serves as a wonderful cinematic dish that's served with a topping of black comedy, colored by incredible animation and sprinkled with profound life lessons. It manages to tell a compelling tale of life, loss, camaraderie, and the many layers of the human emotional spectrum, all within a short span of time. Whether you are an animation enthusiast or a casual viewer, This Way Up promises a moving, entertaining experience, leaving you thinking, laughing, and probably a tiny bit teary. It is a must-watch film that manages to pull at your heartstrings while making you chuckle, a combination that's hard to resist.