Up star!



Nine-year-old Jordan Nagai provides the voice of a wilderness explorer called Russell in Pixar’s cracking new animation, Up. We quiz the actor for the low-down…

NG Kids: Hi Jordan! Tell us about your new film…
Jordan Nagai: Up is about the great adventure that my character, Russell, and his elderly neighbour, Carl Fredericksen, get up to. They fly away when Carl’s house gets lifted up by loads of balloons!

NGK: What is Russell like?
JN: Russell is an enthusiastic eight-year-old who loves animals and the wilderness. He’s determined and he loves running around, so he’s the complete opposite to Mr Frederickson. Carl is grumpy and he doesn’t like going outside.



NGK: Are you similar to Russell?
JN: Well, we both love animals and I'm pretty determined at getting things that I really want. I'd love to explore the wilderness too!

NGK: Do you think you'd be Russell's friend if he was a real person?
JN: Yes, I’m sure I would! He’s funny, helpful and smart – he’d be a great friend to have!

 
NGK: How weird is it to hear your voice coming out of a cartoon character?
JN: It's pretty weird, but it’s cool too. You know what? I thought it was awesome the first time I saw the movie on the big screen. I especially liked it when the dogs start talking. That’s one of my favourite scenes!

NGK: What do your friends think of your new fame?
JN: They are very excited for me. We went to see the movie together on opening day and they really enjoyed it. They think I'm very lucky – and I am!

Up is available on Disney Blu-ray and DVD from 15 February!

Words: Adam Tanswell
Jordan Nagai picture © Getty Images UK. Up pictures © Disney/ Pixar. All Rights Reserved.