Thoughtful, Realistic, Brilliant, and Clooney.

I just watched Up in the Air again on TV. This time, I am 23. And I was shocked by how much I share professional similarities with Natalie Keener, an ambitious freshgrad in her first company. Perceived and treated the same way, I learned, I made mistakes, I found role models, I travelled to meet people, I met many people, they made me cry, I discovered stuff in the so-called real world, I thought about the reasons why I was there (my version of Omaha), I left.

Anyway, I am pretty sure there lots of corporate rookies out there experiencing the same thing, but I'm just amazed by how something, in this case a movie, can appear to be very different after you reach the next phase of life. 

Anyway again, for those who haven't watched this flick, see it! The story line is brilliant (it's based on a book by Walter Kirn), the script is smart and witty, the acting is impressive (I'm referring to George. I don't know how a Twilight cast could land the Oscar nom. Sorry. Who am I to judge anyway). Up in the Air will show you how to travel efficiently, how to deliver bad news, and teach you life lessons. It isn't mind-blowing like Inception, but it will make you think. Not saying that Inception doesn't make you think.

And for those who have seen it, especially my then-college buddies who are now working, or married (gee), it maybe good to see it again, who knows it'll blow your mind, this time.

"Tonight, most people will be welcomed home by jumping dogs and squealing kids. Their spouses will ask about their day, and tonight, they’ll sleep. The stars will wheel forth from their daytime hiding places; and one of those lights, slightly brighter than the rest, will be my wingtip, passing over."

From the movie that makes even an Asian thinks dying alone is a possibility.

*       *       *

Ryan Bingham: You know that moment when you look into somebody's eyes and you can feel them staring into your soul and the whole world goes quiet just for a second?

Natalie Keener: Yes.

Ryan Bingham: Right. Well, I don't.

Devina Siswanto (before college): Same here, Ryan.

Devina Siswanto (after college): Same here, Ryan. (I lied. Actually I'm not sure)

*   *   *

You may call that pathetic. I call that a progress.