Is Pixar capable of releasing a mediocre movie? If their latest film Up is any indication, then I suppose the answer to that question is no.

In this magical and endearing film, lonely 78 year old Carl Fredricksen , transports his home to mythical Paradise Falls by way of thousands of helium filled balloons. Why take on such a seemingly impossible journey? To fulfill a life long dream once shared by he and his deceased wife Ellie. Shortly after take off, Carl realizes he has a stowaway in the form of eager scout Russell. Together, this unlikely pair reach Fredricksen's destination, but upon arrival, they discover they are not alone.

The first ten minutes of this picture, in which we share a virtual lifetime with Carl and soul mate Ellie, go straight for the heart. It's the most moving ten minutes you're likely to have in a theater all year. Once the film switches gears and focuses on Carl and Russell, the film continues to engage, but in an entirely new way.

Up is animated, but unlike many cartoons, it isn't interested in pandering to the youthful set. Instead, it broadens its horizons and opens its arms to audiences of all ages. It's an adventure film but its also charming (the Carl/Ellie relationship put a big lump in my throat), funny (wait until you see the talking dogs), and rich in character (while Carl is animated, he has more depth than most live action characters do, particularly this summer).

Pixar veterans Pete Docter and Bob Petersen (who also lends his voice to Dug the Dog) have fashioned a vibrant, whimsical tale that pays homage to grand fantasies like Around the World in 80 Days, all while keeping the real focus on Carl and his personal journey. This is a message movie, but the message is delivered in a subtle, effective way.

Audiences will have an opportunity to experience this unforgettable film in digital 3-D or standard 2-D. Personally, I prefer the 3-D version. Up doesn't take a gimmicky approach in terms of the 3-D process. It isn't about characters hurling objects at the audience. Up does however, allow you to be sucked into this vibrant cinematic landscape, and seeing those multi colored balloons float out of the screen is quite the experience. Which ever version you do chose to view, one thing is certain; Up is spectacular in any dimension.

I absolutely adore this movie. Couldn't get enough of it. It simply had me grinning from ear to ear for its entire running time. I might have been a tad pre-mature in suggesting that Star Trek was the summer film to beat. Up is pure movie magic.