Thematic Reflection
Docter has become a central figure in shaping the stories a whole generation lives by. His stories have provided hope to young and old alike as they embody his Christian understanding of what it is to be fully human. Docter’s imaginative and whimsical stories have helped all of us find joy in our lives, even as they have helped Pixar’s meteoric rise to the top of the animation ladder. This is true for all his films, but perhaps it is particularly true of his brilliant, unlikely hit, Up. – Read more in Pete Doctor’s Uplifting Storytelling by Rob Johnston.
Key Scenes
Discussion Questions
.jpg)
For Adults
Watch Clip 1.
1) What losses and longings do you see in this scene?
2) Do you identify with any of them in particular?
3) How do our losses shape the stories we tell about our lives?
Watch Clip 2, and read Proverbs 18:24.
1) What is the difference between having numerous companions/acquaintances and having a true friend?
2) Why do we tend to overlook our real friends in favor of something more “grand?”
3) What “boring” things in your life actually make your life the most meaningful?
.gif)
For Families
Watch Clip 1.
1) What losses and longings do you see in this scene?
2) Do you identify with any of them in particular?
3) How would you tell a story about our families losses?
Watch Clip 2, and read Proverbs 18:24.
1) What is the difference between having numerous companions/acquaintances and having a true friend?
2) Can parents and siblings stick to each other “closer than a brother?” How might we?
3) What “boring” things in your life actually make your life the most meaningful?
.jpg)
For Students
Watch Clip 1.
1) What losses and longings do you see in this scene?
2) Do you identify with any of them in particular?
3) How have the things you have lost changed you?
Watch Clip 2, and read Proverbs 18:24.
1) What is the difference between having 1,000 Facebook friends and having a true friend?
2) Why do we tend to overlook our real friends in favor of something more “grand?”
3) What “boring” things in your life actually make your life the most meaningful?
.jpg)
For Children
Watch Clip 1.
1) What do you like about Carl and Ellie’s life? What did you not like?
2) What kind of adventure do you want to go on?
3) Who would you take? Why?
Watch Clip 2, and read Proverbs 18:24.
1) What “boring” things do you do that you really enjoy?
2) Are there any adults in your life that you love to be around? Why?
3) What does it mean to be a “friend who sticks closer than a brother?”
Related Scriptures
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
(Proverbs 18:24)
More Resources for Further Reflection and Discussion
.jpg)
