One of the best films I've seen this year is director Jason Reitman's Up in the Air.  In his two previous movies, Juno and Thank You For Smoking, Reitman showed us he was a director to watch.  And while I loved his two previous films, Up in the Air is definitely his best work and it's sure to nab a nomination for Best Picture.

If you haven't heard of Up in the Air, I would advise you to learn as little as possible and go see the movie based solely on my recommendation.  But for a bit more...the film stars George Clooney as a corporate downsizing expert whose cherished life on the road is threatened just as he is on the cusp of reaching his goal of ten million frequent flyer miles and after he's met the frequent-traveler woman of his dreams.

Finally, I cannot say enough about the entire cast.  The three leads - George Clooney, Vera Farmiga and Anna Kendrick - each have moments to shine.  Also, what's great about the film is both women are much more than typical movie girlfriends or love interests.  Due to a great script featuring well rounded characters, they each get to showcase their considerable talent.  If you can't tell, I loved this film.  So while I'd prefer for you to wait and not watch any clips, hit the jump for a glimpse of Up in the Air:

Up in the Air also stars Jason Bateman, Adam Rose, Danny McBride and Melanie Lynskey.

Finally, all five clips are in the player below.  Once you push play, you'll probably have to watch a pre-roll ad then all the clips will play in order.  Sorry about the pre-roll, but it pays for the bandwidth.

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