JUNO (2007)
JUNO has the distinct feel of an indie production and I mean that as a compliment. In an entertainment industry populated by depictions of sex crazed teens JUNO has the intelligence and wit to stand out from the crowd. Described as being the little film that could this adorable flick has both critics and viewers alike applauding its originality. It's also been nominated for a number of industry awards including several Golden Globes and there's ever talk of possible Oscar consideration.
Actress Ellen Page, a native of Halifax Nova Scotia, delievers a star making performance as the title character in the film. Altrhough she's been acting for some time, including roles in big screen flicks like HARD CANDY and X-MEN: THE LAST STAND, JUNO is the film destined to make her a household name.
JUNO was directed by Jason Reitman who is the son of Canadian filmmaking icon Ivan Reitman. His previous cinematic effort was the black comedy THANK YOU FOR SMOKING. With the release of JUNO the younger Reitman proves that he's more than able to spot a good script when he reads one.
The supporting cast of JUNO features some noteworthy talent including Allison Janney, Jennifer Garner, and "Arrested Development" alumni Jason Bateman and Michael Cera. All of these actors give top notch performances.
JUNO is a delightful comedy about a very serious issue; teen pregnancy. The script by newcomer Diablo Cody is able to address the topic in a mature manner but without being didactic or heavy handed. The film is a smart comedy with a lot of heart and wit.
JUNO begins as the title character learns that she is pregnant after a one time sexual experience with her best friend (Cera). At this point in her young life the modern teen is thrust into the position of dealing with a very adult dilemna. After exploring her options regarding an abortion she decides to have the baby and give it up for adoption.
After a friend finds an ad in The Pennysaver ("desperately seeking spawn") Juno meets a childless couple played by Bateman and Garner. Although financially successful and seemingly picture perfect the pair have just about everything they could ask for except an offspring. Rather than portraying this married couple in a stereotypical manner screenwriter Cody is able to bring them to life as genuine people with real foibles and problems.
The character of Juno is at a very complex point in her life as she grapples with making the transition out of girlhood and into the adult world. The film deals with her unexpected pregnancy in a responsible and mature way. The teen isn't portrayed as a victim or a scarlet woman stained forever because of her "sinful" behaviour. Instead she is able to maintain her integrity and never reverts to being a cliche. Although Juno is forced to confront tough adult issues at a young age she is fortunate to have a loving support system which includes her father, step mother, best friend, and quasi boyfriend.
JUNO is a smart and funny film that deserves all the acclaim it has been receiving. Due to the subject matter in less competent hands the script might have run the risk of becoming an after school special or teen sex comedy but instead, luckily for viewers, it's a charming treat.
C.L. Illsley
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