The opening film sequence for Up in the Air (2009) takes the viewer on a journey through the clouds and across the abstract landscapes of America. Each still is like a vintage postcard. The moving sequence is inter-cut with slides of lush greenery, dusty canyons, and intricate cityscapes. And the cherry on top? Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings’ “This land is your land” is the soundtrack behind the film edits that make the images float, glide, spin across the screen. It kicks the sleepiness out of the aerial footage and gives it a boost of vibrancy. The studio responsible for this, Shadowplay Studio, also made film titles for Juno (2007) and Thank you for Smoking (2005).
Besides a great opening title, you should see this film because it does a great job of capturing thoughtful humor in airport security, firing people, and break-ups. George Clooney brings charm to his character as a professional that large companies hire to lay off their staff. In an economic recession, he’s a busy man zipping across the country firing people on other’s behalf. While the theme of the film might be a downer, the film is overall enjoyable and fun.
