This weekend, our son convinced us to have a family movie night and watch Up. I noticed a lot of layers to the story – maybe it’s because of my ongoing studies in psychology or my deepening perspective on life 🙂
In this post, I’ll share some of the deep messages I found in the movie and how they connect to life and psychology.
Letting Go of the Past
Carl is attached to his house, and during the movie, he learns to let go of it. It’s not about forgetting, but honoring the memories by living fully in the present.
This reminded me of a principle in Gestalt psychotherapy: unfinished business. Carl starts the movie stuck and unable to move forward. By letting go of the house, he integrates the past with the present, finding closure in Ellie’s message, “Thanks for the adventure-now go have a new one”.
Finding Treasure in Unexpected Places
As we watched Carl and Russell’s journey, I kept thinking about the Bible verse from Matthew 6:21
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Carl initially believes his treasure is fulfilling Ellie’s dream, but by the end, he realizes his true treasure is in the relationships he’s building on the way.
Redemption and Renewal
Carl’s transformation from a grumpy old man to someone who chooses to love and help other is powerful. It aligns with the Christian concept of renewal:
The old has gone, the new is here!
Redemption doesn’t always mean something big – it can be about small, everyday choices to care for others, like mentoring Russell or adopting Dug.
Gestalt therapy also highlights the importance of meaningful relationships with others and how these interactions shape our growth.
Trusting in the Bigger Plan
One of the most symbolic moments in the movie is when Carl’s house lands exactly where Ellie had dreamed – by Paradise Falls. And yet, Carl never knows that happened.
It’s a reminder that even when we don’t see the full picture, things often fall into place in ways we don’t expect.
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. – Proverbs 16:9
Conclusion
If you haven’t seen Up, I encourage you to do it.
As Ellie’s scrapbook reminds us, life is an adventure. Whether it’s studying psychology, deepening faith, or simply having a movie night with the family, there’s always something to learn, embrace, and cherish.
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