When we remember our favorite stories, we often think first of the climactic battles, traumatic events in the backstory, and world-rocking inciting incidents.

But often, the scenes that resonate with us most—the turning points that make those climaxes possible, the snapshots that connect us with the characters, and the vignettes that make us care about the stakes—are unassuming. Brief moments. Poignant observations of simple joys and sorrows. The everyday captured in vivid color.

It’s the offhand comment that changes your course.

It’s the moment you become aware of the beauty of something you’ve seen a hundred times.

It’s that seemingly insignificant memory that you cling to for no apparent reason.

It’s the moment of laughter that gives you the energy to take the next step.

It’s the simple daily ritual that takes on new significance once it’s been interrupted.

It’s real life.

“That might sound boring, but I think the boring stuff is the stuff I remember the most.”

— Russel, Up

If the opening montage of Pixar’s Up doesn’t make you cry, you probably need help. (Don’t worry, we’re in the same boat.)

The surprising thing about this incredibly moving piece of cinematography is that it’s so down-to-earth, focusing on everyday events across the couple’s married life.

Renovating the house. Cloudgazing. Working at the zoo. Saving for a trip. Unexciting mishaps busting the savings. Cleaning the house.

What makes the ordinary so moving? And what makes these images a story instead of a bunch of disconnected events?

🎈Every scene showcases the relationship.

The montage shows Ellie drawing out Carl’s sense of adventure: renovating their childhood haunt in their wedding outfits, Ellie beating Carl up the hill at their picnic spot, and fantasizing about growing their family. Carl quietly basks in the glow of Ellie’s enthusiasm, captivated by the life he sees through her eyes.

Then, after Ellie suffers a devastating miscarriage, the roles reverse. Carl takes the initiative and reminds her of her spirit of adventure, rekindling their childhood dream of visiting Paradise Falls. After the dream has once again faded into the background, Carl remembers his promise and buys the plane tickets as a surprise. But by then, Ellie’s health is failing, and it’s her turn to encourage him to continue to live the adventure…without her.

🎈The scenes DO follow a plot.

The story revolves around Carl’s unfulfilled promise to take Ellie to Paradise Falls. The couple’s home and décor constantly reflect their dream. There’s a try-fail sequence where the savings for the trip repeatedly get spent on mundane emergencies. And finally, the moment when their dream is about to come true…except it doesn’t.

🎈The scenes reinforce the theme.

Ellie’s final message to Carl sheds new light on the opening. The life Carl & Ellie shared might not have included the adventures they had planned, but all those moments WERE the adventure they lived. And it was pretty amazing.