How to fly high above (and beyond) I-Drive

Dewayne Bevil can be reached at 407-420-5477 or dbevil@orlandosentinel.com.

Things are looking 'Up'

Full disclosure: I got choked up during Up, the latest Disney- Pixar animated film, which has done more than $187 million in box office thus far. Going in, I knew there were emotional spots, but I wasn't expecting them so early. Sneaky!


Thankfully, No tears were shed during my recent visit to see the Up characters at Disney's Hollywood Studios. They are stationed daily in the Magic of Disney Animation building, I saw only Carl (the aging homeowner voiced by Ed Asner) and Dug (the squirrel-oriented dog), but a cast member assured me that young Russell also makes appearances. Kevin the bird is built into the backdrop, which increases the value of the photo opportunity.

Carl's costuming is excellent, detailed down to the hearing aid, wedding ring and soda cap medal. Dug is playful, does the doggie hands bit and "licks" kids.

My only disappointment: Dug can't talk. Wouldn't it be cool if you pushed a button on his collar and he said "Squirrel!" like in the movie? If Mickey can blink, a boy can dream.

See for yourself

Air Florida Helicopter Charters

What: Flights above International Drive, theme parks, downtown Orlando, Windermere, Lake Apopka and more.

Where: 8990 International Drive, Orlando.

When: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. daily.

Cost: From $20 to $355 per person.

Call: 407-354-1400.

Online: airfloridahelicopter.com