Up There (2011), directed by Zoran Lisinac, offers a unique and introspective look at the afterlife—one that isn’t defined by grand divine landscapes but by limbo, forgotten souls, and the emotional weight carried by those tasked with guiding them.

The film centers on Martin, a reluctant caretaker of the newly deceased, and explores themes of redemption, responsibility, and the search for meaning in both life and death.

A World Between Life and Death

Unlike the typical portrayals of the afterlife, Up There presents a quiet, mundane limbo where the newly deceased wait for ascension to heaven, devoid of grand celestial judgment. Martin (David Gant), assigned to care for these souls, is stuck between life and death, his role more mechanical than meaningful at first.

As a caretaker, his job is to usher souls along their path, but his emotional detachment reflects the empty state of the afterlife itself. Martin’s world is one of inaction and waiting, mirroring his own unresolved feelings about his existence.

The Missing Soul: A Catalyst for Change

The plot shifts when a soul goes missing in a coastal town, pulling Martin into a search that forces him to confront his own emotional struggles. This disappearance is not just a plot device, but a catalyst for Martin’s self-discovery. In looking for the lost soul, he also embarks on a journey to reconcile with his past, dealing with his own feelings of guilt and neglect.

The missing soul symbolizes Martin’s inner conflict—his struggle with his role in the afterlife and his need for redemption.

Cinematic Style: Subtle and Reflective

Up There is a film defined by its subtlety, both in its storytelling and its cinematography. The coastal town setting is quiet, desolate, and visually mirrors the soul’s limbo—nowhere between life and death. The pacing is slow, allowing for moments of introspection rather than action, which draws viewers into the film’s meditative atmosphere.

The quiet tone of the film makes the emotional journey feel more personal and impactful, inviting audiences to reflect on their own lives and afterlives.

Redemption and Responsibility

At its core, Up There is a story about redemption—not just for the souls Martin tends to, but for Martin himself. Initially apathetic about his task, Martin’s transformation begins as he takes responsibility for the missing soul. His search forces him to face his regrets, understand his past mistakes, and ultimately seek redemption.

The film suggests that redemption is not a one-time event but a continual process, where acknowledging past wrongs is essential to moving forward.

Class exercice: Sound. "Up there" (2011)

Caitlin O'Rorke

Life, Death, and Meaning

Up There offers a personal and poignant exploration of life, death, and what comes after. Rather than focusing on abstract theological questions, the film takes a more intimate approach, considering what happens to the souls who slip through the cracks—those who are forgotten or overlooked.

Martin’s job becomes a reminder that even in death, people matter, their stories deserve to be told, and they deserve to be remembered.

In summary

In Up There, Zoran Lisinac crafts a quiet, thoughtful narrative that examines the weight of responsibility, the search for redemption, and the value of every life—whether alive or dead. The film’s understated style and deep emotional themes provide a refreshing take on the afterlife, making it a poignant meditation on human existence.

Through Martin’s journey, Up There ultimately reminds us that the search for meaning doesn’t end at death—it’s a continuous quest to find purpose, both for ourselves and for others.