The comment that is top rated among the entries submitted about this film seems to indicate that the creators, and/or the publicist, wanted to create a hype to sell the movie. This is the same tactic that is used in most media ads, in which a phrase, or two, will make the viewer run to see the picture. At the same time, an indie like "What Goes Up" needs to be enjoyed for what it is, not because that someone decided to tell us to like the picture. This is manipulation of the first order.
Jonathan Glatzer and his co-writer, Robert Lawson, were obviously a bit pressed for time, or perhaps a tight budget to make this dramatic comedy a winner. Part of the problem seems to be Steve Coogan's Campbell Babbitt who is a cynic, a liar, and a character that is not likable; he shows no redeeming qualities whatsoever until the conclusion of the story. Then, there is Hillary Duff totally miscast as Lucy Diamond, a mixed up young woman who doesn't know what she wants.
On the other hand, the excellent Olivia Thirlby, one of the most versatile actresses working today, has better luck with her Tess. She is appealing as the young woman facing a difficult time. It is a departure from some of the sunnier parts she has been asked to play before. Molly Shannon has some good moments as the music teacher trying to put on a show to honor astronaut Christa McAuliffe, who died in the tragic explosion of the Space Shuttle Explorer.
Our own recommendation is to watch "What Goes Up" on its own merits. Just relax and be objective.
Jonathan Glatzer and his co-writer, Robert Lawson, were obviously a bit pressed for time, or perhaps a tight budget to make this dramatic comedy a winner. Part of the problem seems to be Steve Coogan's Campbell Babbitt who is a cynic, a liar, and a character that is not likable; he shows no redeeming qualities whatsoever until the conclusion of the story. Then, there is Hillary Duff totally miscast as Lucy Diamond, a mixed up young woman who doesn't know what she wants.
On the other hand, the excellent Olivia Thirlby, one of the most versatile actresses working today, has better luck with her Tess. She is appealing as the young woman facing a difficult time. It is a departure from some of the sunnier parts she has been asked to play before. Molly Shannon has some good moments as the music teacher trying to put on a show to honor astronaut Christa McAuliffe, who died in the tragic explosion of the Space Shuttle Explorer.
Our own recommendation is to watch "What Goes Up" on its own merits. Just relax and be objective.