The “What Goes Up” movie trailer promises a quirky, offbeat comedy about journalistic ambition and small-town secrets, but its deceptively light tone masks a deeper exploration of grief, responsibility, and the ripple effects of truth and lies. At its core, the trailer reveals a film less about slapstick humor and more about the complex interplay between perception, reality, and the very human need to find meaning in the face of tragedy.
Unpacking the Narrative: More Than Meets the Eye
The trailer for “What Goes Up” presents a seemingly straightforward narrative: a big-city journalist, Campbell Babbitt, arrives in a small New Hampshire town to cover the historic launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986. He befriends a group of eccentric high school students, finds himself entangled in their lives, and ends up becoming a reluctant father figure, all while navigating the complexities of his assignment. However, peeling back the layers, one discovers a more nuanced story about emotional baggage, the allure of escapism, and the consequences of manipulating narratives.
The trailer hints at Campbell’s own internal struggles, suggesting he’s using the assignment as a distraction from personal pain. The seemingly innocent prank involving the students becomes a catalyst for unexpected events, forcing Campbell to confront his own demons and grapple with the weight of his actions. The film subtly explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the blurred lines between objectivity and subjectivity in journalism.
Furthermore, the trailer subtly alludes to the Challenger disaster’s impact on the community. While not explicitly shown, the undertones of national tragedy serve as a backdrop, amplifying the characters’ individual struggles and highlighting the universal search for hope amidst despair. The movie doesn’t shy away from exploring the fragility of dreams and the disillusionment that can follow shattered expectations.
Deconstructing the Humor: Dark Undercurrents
While marketed as a comedy, “What Goes Up” employs a dark and often absurd sense of humor. The trailer showcases moments of levity, such as the awkward interactions between Campbell and the students, and the small-town quirks of the New Hampshire setting. However, beneath the surface lies a layer of satire that critiques the sensationalism of media and the tendency to romanticize tragic events.
The film uses humor as a coping mechanism, allowing the characters to confront difficult truths in a roundabout way. The seemingly lighthearted pranks and eccentric behaviors serve as a defense mechanism against the overwhelming grief and uncertainty that permeate their lives. The humor, therefore, isn’t simply for comedic effect; it’s an integral part of the storytelling, providing a lens through which to examine complex emotions and moral dilemmas.
The Role of the Challenger Disaster: A Catalyst for Change
The Space Shuttle Challenger disaster serves as a pivotal event in “What Goes Up,” not only as a historical backdrop but as a catalyst for profound personal transformation. The trailer hints at the devastation caused by the tragedy and its impact on the small town.
The disaster serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life and the fragility of human aspirations. It forces the characters to re-evaluate their priorities and confront their own mortality. The shared experience of grief and loss brings them closer together, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. In this sense, the Challenger disaster isn’t merely a plot device; it’s a symbol of shared trauma that shapes the characters’ journeys and ultimately leads them to find solace and healing.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into “What Goes Up”
Here are some frequently asked questions about “What Goes Up,” addressing its themes, context, and overall impact:
H3 FAQ 1: Is “What Goes Up” based on a true story?
No, “What Goes Up” is not based on a specific true story. However, it’s heavily inspired by the cultural and emotional climate surrounding the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986. While the characters and events are fictional, the film captures the widespread grief, shock, and disillusionment that followed the tragedy. The writers drew inspiration from the collective memory of the era to create a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative. The town, the high school, and the dynamics of the 80s are all representative of that time.
H3 FAQ 2: What are the main themes explored in the movie?
The main themes explored in “What Goes Up” include grief, loss, redemption, the power of truth, the consequences of deception, and the complexities of human relationships. It also delves into the role of media in shaping public perception and the ethical responsibilities of journalists. Furthermore, the film explores the theme of finding meaning and purpose in the face of tragedy.
H3 FAQ 3: How does the movie portray the media’s role in covering the Challenger disaster?
The movie portrays the media, particularly through the character of Campbell Babbitt, as both a chronicler of events and a participant in shaping the narrative. It highlights the potential for sensationalism and manipulation in journalism, as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by reporters when dealing with sensitive information and vulnerable individuals. The film raises questions about the responsibility of the media to report the truth accurately and ethically.
H3 FAQ 4: What is the significance of the title, “What Goes Up”?
The title “What Goes Up” has multiple layers of meaning. On a literal level, it refers to the Space Shuttle Challenger’s ascent and subsequent tragic descent. On a metaphorical level, it represents the characters’ hopes, dreams, and aspirations, which are ultimately challenged by the realities of life. The title also suggests the cyclical nature of life, with its ups and downs, and the inevitable consequences of actions.
H3 FAQ 5: How does the movie balance comedy and drama?
“What Goes Up” employs a delicate balance of comedy and drama, using humor as a coping mechanism for characters grappling with grief and loss. The humor often serves to highlight the absurdity of life and the characters’ attempts to find meaning in difficult circumstances. The film effectively blends lighthearted moments with heavier themes, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. This blend often employs dark comedy to heighten the drama.
H3 FAQ 6: What is the relationship between Campbell and the high school students?
Campbell’s relationship with the high school students evolves from a professional assignment to a reluctant mentorship. He initially sees them as subjects for his article but gradually becomes invested in their lives and struggles. He acts as a surrogate father figure, offering guidance and support as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. Their influence eventually helps Campbell confront his own past.
H3 FAQ 7: How does “What Goes Up” reflect the cultural climate of the 1980s?
The movie effectively captures the cultural climate of the 1980s through its soundtrack, fashion, and references to popular culture. It also reflects the era’s prevailing anxieties about nuclear war, economic uncertainty, and social change. The film utilizes the setting as a historical and cultural lens, adding depth to the narrative.
H3 FAQ 8: What is the overall message of the movie?
The overall message of “What Goes Up” is that even in the face of tragedy and loss, hope and redemption are possible. It emphasizes the importance of human connection, forgiveness, and the courage to confront difficult truths. The film suggests that finding meaning in life often involves embracing vulnerability and accepting the complexities of the human experience. It’s a narrative about resilience and the enduring power of the human spirit.
H3 FAQ 9: Who are the main actors in “What Goes Up” and what are their roles?
The film stars Olivia Thirlby as Tessa, Josh Peck as Jim Lenser, and Steve Coogan as Campbell Babbitt. Thirlby plays a student whose life is turned upside down after she fakes having cancer. Peck plays Jim, who is also a student and who is involved in faking having cancer as well. Coogan plays the main character Campbell, a journalist who must learn and grow by seeing the issues in the story firsthand.
H3 FAQ 10: Is “What Goes Up” suitable for children?
Given its mature themes, including grief, loss, and some adult situations, “What Goes Up” is generally not suitable for young children. Parental guidance is recommended for older children and teenagers. The film explores sensitive subject matter that may be challenging for younger viewers to process.
H3 FAQ 11: Where can I watch “What Goes Up”?
Availability of “What Goes Up” can vary by region and platform. Check streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies for rental or purchase options. You may also find it available on DVD or Blu-ray at online retailers.
H3 FAQ 12: Does the film offer a hopeful resolution?
While “What Goes Up” doesn’t offer a neat and tidy resolution, it does provide a sense of closure and hope for the future. The characters have confronted their demons, learned from their mistakes, and found a path towards healing and redemption. The film suggests that even after experiencing profound loss, it’s possible to find meaning, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. The ending suggests a brighter future for those impacted, albeit with scars and lessons learned. Ultimately, the film is an exploration of human vulnerability and resilience.