Stick with the clip, and one can hear a glimpse of the film's musical centerpiece -- an original tune from heretofore unknown artist Sad Brad Smith. The song, Help Yourself," arrives as Clooney's Ryan Bingham is making an emotional transition, and rolls along with a Simon & Garfunkel tenderness. It should be a shoo-in for an original song Oscar nomination, framing a pivotal moment in the film with warmth, as well as an irresistible melody.
Set for limited release in early December, Up in the Air" is Jason Reitman's follow-up to Juno," and the soundtrack will be released on Rhino Records. Pop & Hiss will have more on the film as the release date arrives.
Up in the Air," a recession-timed film about corporate and personal fulfillment, has a strong use of non-original music as well, including a credit-opening scene set to a sizzling, scotch-on-the-rocks-worthy cover of This Land Is Your Land" from Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings.
There's also a pretty sweet musical cameo from a vintage rapper, but Pop & Hiss will let your favorite search engine spoil that surprise.