Released 15 years ago this month, Pixar’s “Up” is one of the most charming, fun, and adventurous animated movies out there. Back in the day when good story telling dominated Hollywood, “Up” quickly captured the imaginations of children and adults alike who loved the charming story of Carl and Ellie who love deeply and dream big. As the story continues, Carl is faced with challenges and heartbreak, as well as an adorable child, Russell, who brings the spirit of adventure back into Carl’s life.

Even though this isn’t a new movie and you’ve all probably already seen it and love it, here are 8 ways “Up” teaches family values, just to convince you to make it your Friday night movie of choice!

The Family Values of “Up”

1. It’s the unbreakable family bonds that truly make a house a home. Homemaking is more than housework, decor, and meals, and a home is made through everyone’s work and what each person brings into it every day.
2. “Up” is a celebration of the human spirit, a testament to the resilience of hope, and a reminder that even in our hardest moments, the capacity for wonder and joy remains —especially when fueled and supported by the past and present love of family and friends.
3. Be kind to everyone. Especially curmudgeonly, old widowers like Carl.
4. Pro-life and pro-family. Not to spoil the beginning of the story, but Ellie and Carl excitedly anticipate becoming parents. When they lose their baby, they are heartbroken.
5. Honor and memorialize loved ones. Again, spoiler alert, but after Ellie’s passing, Carl decides to honor her memory by embarking on the adventure they had always planned. Carl also holds his house very dear because of its connection to Ellie.
6. Encourage and support your friends and family to pursue their dreams—no dream is too big or small. The world is full of possibilities waiting to be explored. Adventure is out there!
7. The importance of friendship and creating family with those around you—because you are not alone!
8. The courage to embrace new adventures at any age.

In short, “Up” is a fantastic family movie-night movie! 

Snacks For Your Movie Night

• Grape sodas
• Melon balls arranged to look like balloons
• Fruit dip (whip the following ingredients together)
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • lemon zest of half a lemon
  • 1 tsp vanilla,
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup)