"If you're willing to listen, Up in the Air is a film with things to say."

Up in the Air is a solid film with impeccable timing. Though we never really get to know the main character, and the focus of the film is largely diluted, the whole thing still comes off as refreshing and innovative. That's the trick of social relevance, and director Jason Reitman has pulled it off.

George Clooney plays a consultant charged with traveling the country to lay people off. He's the bearer of…