Carl's Date (2023) Watch Online Free

Carl's Date (2023) Watch Online

Carl's Date (2023) Watch Online Free

Director: Bob Peterson
Year: 2023 Rating: 75

Carl Fredricksen reluctantly agrees to go on a date with a lady friend—but admittedly has no idea how dating works these days. Ever the helpful friend, Dug steps in to calm Carl’s pre-date jitters and offer some tried-and-true tips for making friends—if you’re a dog.


Carl’s Date” is a delightful short film that takes us back to the world of Carl Fredricksen from Pixar’s beloved Up (2009). Directed by Bob Peterson, this short film was released alongside Elemental in 2023. The plot centers around Carl, now a widower, who reluctantly agrees to go on a date with a lady friend from his senior living community. However, Carl is unsure about modern dating and, naturally, is filled with anxiety about the whole situation. His faithful dog, Dug, offers comic and somewhat misguided advice that helps calm Carl’s nerves.

The short features Carl’s charming, nervous energy as he tries to navigate this new chapter of his life, learning that moving forward after a loss can be both difficult and surprisingly uplifting. The film touches on themes of growth, the enduring bonds of friendship, and the tender emotional journey of honoring a late partner while embracing the possibilities of new connections.

Themes in “Carl’s Date”

  1. Healing and Moving On: One of the central themes is Carl’s journey to heal after the death of his beloved wife, Ellie. Carl’s reluctance to date again underscores the difficulty of moving on from someone who shaped his life, but Carl’s Date suggests that it’s okay to explore new beginnings while still holding on to the memories of the past.
  2. Friendship: Dug plays a crucial role in the short, offering comic relief but also emotional support. Their bond continues to be one of the purest examples of friendship, with Dug’s lovable personality helping Carl face his fears.
  3. Embracing Change: The short also explores the idea of embracing change at any stage of life. Carl may be elderly, but he’s still capable of starting a new chapter. The film encourages audiences to remain open to life’s surprises, even when they feel intimidating.
  4. Humor in Vulnerability: Dug’s well-meaning but silly advice adds humor to the film, showing how humor can be a tool for dealing with vulnerability. It’s a reminder that life doesn’t have to be taken too seriously, even in moments of uncertainty.

10 Reasons to Watch “Carl’s Date”

  1. A Heartwarming Continuation of Up‘s Legacy: If you loved Up, this short offers a beautiful extension of Carl’s emotional journey.
  2. Ed Asner’s Final Performance: This is one of Ed Asner’s last voice performances before his passing, bringing an added layer of emotional depth to Carl’s character.
  3. Clever Humor with Dug: Dug’s antics provide a lighthearted and funny element, making the film enjoyable for all ages.
  4. A Deeply Emotional Core: Despite its short runtime, the film delivers a surprisingly emotional story about love, loss, and moving on.
  5. Beautiful Animation: Like all Pixar films, Carl’s Date features stunning animation that brings Carl’s world to life in an engaging way.
  6. Relatable Themes of Aging and Loneliness: The film resonates with anyone who has experienced loneliness or the challenges of starting over later in life.
  7. Positive Message About Friendship: Dug proves once again that true friendship can come from the most unexpected places.
  8. Perfect for a Quick, Emotional Pick-Me-Up: With a short runtime, it’s perfect for a quick but impactful emotional experience.
  9. A Great Transition Between Up and Dug Days: If you’re a fan of Dug Days, this short serves as a natural and touching segue.
  10. Encourages New Adventures: Ultimately, Carl’s Date reminds us that it’s never too late to start a new adventure, whether it’s a date or a new chapter in life.

Emotional Aftermath

After watching Carl’s Date, you might feel a mixture of nostalgia and optimism. The short film captures the bittersweetness of life’s transitions—reminding us that even though Carl can never replace his beloved Ellie, he is still capable of experiencing joy and new connections. The humor from Dug will leave you smiling, while Carl’s vulnerability may prompt reflection on your own relationships. It’s a film that tugs at the heartstrings, leaving you with a feeling of warmth and hope despite life’s challenges