“What Goes Up” (2009) is a complex and fragmented narrative that uses the backdrop of the 1986 Challenger disaster to explore themes of grief, deception, and the search for connection in a fractured world. It’s not a straightforward story, but rather a collection of interwoven narratives that ultimately question the nature of truth and the impact of tragedy on personal relationships.
Unraveling the Narrative Threads: An In-Depth Analysis
“What Goes Up” is a film that deliberately avoids easy answers, presenting a series of seemingly disparate storylines that gradually converge around the central event of the Challenger explosion. The film’s protagonist, Campbell Babbitt (Steve Coogan), is a cynical and somewhat unreliable journalist tasked with going undercover at a New Hampshire high school to debunk a story about rampant teenage sexuality. However, his mission takes an unexpected turn when he becomes entangled with a group of students deeply affected by the impending space shuttle launch and the subsequent tragedy.
The film doesn’t offer a simple plot synopsis because its power lies in its fragmented structure and character-driven explorations. Instead of a traditional hero’s journey, we see Campbell’s own moral compass challenged as he interacts with the students, particularly Tessa (Olivia Thirlby), whose enigmatic nature and deep emotional wounds become a focal point of his attention.
The Challenger disaster acts as a symbolic representation of shattered dreams and the fragility of human existence. It serves as a catalyst for the characters to confront their own vulnerabilities and the lies they tell themselves and others. The film explores themes of lost innocence, the complexities of truth, and the enduring power of human connection, even amidst profound loss.
While some critics found the film confusing and disjointed, others praised its unconventional approach and its willingness to grapple with difficult themes. “What Goes Up” challenges viewers to piece together the narrative threads, to interpret the symbolism, and to ultimately find their own meaning within the story’s ambiguities. This deliberate opacity makes it a film that demands attention and rewards repeated viewings.
The film’s strength resides not in a perfectly linear narrative, but in its ability to capture the emotional resonance of a specific moment in history and its exploration of universal themes. It’s a story about finding hope and connection in the face of despair, and about the enduring human need to make sense of the world, even when faced with inexplicable tragedy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “What Goes Up”
H3: 1. What is the central event that influences the plot of “What Goes Up”?
The Challenger disaster of 1986 is the pivotal event that profoundly impacts the characters and the overall narrative. It serves as a backdrop for the story and a symbolic representation of shattered hopes and the fragility of life.
H3: 2. Who is Campbell Babbitt, and what is his role in the film?
Campbell Babbitt, played by Steve Coogan, is a cynical journalist who initially goes undercover at a high school to investigate a supposed story of teenage promiscuity. His journey becomes more complex as he gets drawn into the lives of the students and grapples with his own moral compromises.
H3: 3. What are the main themes explored in “What Goes Up”?
The film explores themes of grief, deception, the search for connection, the loss of innocence, and the complexities of truth. It also examines the impact of tragedy on personal relationships and the human need to find meaning in the face of loss.
H3: 4. What is the significance of the title, “What Goes Up”?
The title directly references the Challenger space shuttle disaster and acts as a metaphor for aspirations, dreams, and the inevitability of loss. It also hints at the cyclical nature of life and the possibility of rising again after falling.
H3: 5. Is “What Goes Up” based on a true story?
While the film is set against the backdrop of a real historical event, the characters and specific plot points are fictional. However, the emotional impact of the Challenger disaster and its effect on individuals and communities is depicted with sensitivity.
H3: 6. Why is the narrative structure of “What Goes Up” so fragmented?
The fragmented narrative mirrors the disorientation and emotional turmoil experienced by the characters in the aftermath of the tragedy. It also challenges the audience to actively participate in piecing together the story and drawing their own conclusions.
H3: 7. What is the relationship between Campbell and Tessa?
The relationship between Campbell and Tessa is complex and ambiguous. He initially sees her as a subject for his story, but he becomes increasingly drawn to her vulnerability and the deep emotional wounds she carries. Their connection blurs the lines between professional distance and personal involvement.
H3: 8. How does the film portray the impact of the Challenger disaster on teenagers?
The film portrays the teenagers as being deeply affected by the tragedy, struggling to come to terms with the loss of innocence and the realization of mortality. They express their grief and confusion through various means, including rebellious behavior, artistic expression, and seeking solace in each other.
H3: 9. What are some of the symbols used in “What Goes Up”?
The Challenger explosion itself is a central symbol, representing shattered dreams and the fragility of human endeavors. Other symbols include the space shuttle, rockets, and the vastness of space, which evoke themes of ambition, hope, and the unknown.
H3: 10. What is the overall message of “What Goes Up”?
While the film doesn’t offer easy answers, its overall message suggests that even in the face of tragedy, human connection and the search for meaning can provide solace and hope. It emphasizes the importance of confronting difficult truths and finding strength in vulnerability.
H3: 11. What are some critical opinions of “What Goes Up”?
Some critics found the film to be confusing, disjointed, and lacking a clear narrative focus. They argued that the fragmented structure and multiple storylines made it difficult to connect with the characters and understand the film’s overall message.
H3: 12. Why is “What Goes Up” still relevant today?
“What Goes Up” remains relevant because it explores universal themes of grief, loss, and the search for meaning that resonate with audiences regardless of the specific historical context. It also challenges viewers to think critically about the nature of truth and the impact of tragedy on human relationships, making it a thought-provoking and enduring film.
The Enduring Appeal of Complex Narratives
“What Goes Up” might not be a crowd-pleaser in the traditional sense, but its unconventional narrative and exploration of profound themes have earned it a cult following. It’s a film that rewards patient viewers who are willing to engage with its complexities and grapple with its ambiguities. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to provoke thought, stimulate discussion, and offer a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. The film reminds us that even in the face of immense loss, the human spirit can endure, and connections can be forged amidst the wreckage of shattered dreams.