I’m not usually one for simple teen comedy, in fact I make a point to avoid them. So, you can imagine my surprise when after being persuaded to watch Juno, a comedy with romantic implications, I was in absolute awe.
Juno, directed by Jason Reitman, is about a 16 year old girl named, you guessed it, Juno (Ellen Page), who finds herself in a spot of bother. After loosing her virginity she subsequently becomes pregnant and knowing that she is not ready to be a mum she decides to give the baby up for adoption. This film follows her life for the nine months when she is carrying the child.
Every aspect of this film is marvellous, from the choice of music, which fits the mood of the film completely, to the sarcastic and outspoken comedy that promises to have any viewer in fits of laughter. Juno certainly disproves the claim that sarcasm is the lowest form of wit and at the same time cleverly addresses serious issues. The whole story is optimistic and gives a new spin on the discourse surrounding teenage mothers. Juno’s life is not ruined by her pregnancy but instead, her mistake works to improve the life of Vanessa (Jennifer Garner), who has fertility problems.
Such a film would not have achieved such an impact without the impeccable timing of Ellen Page who has become adept at playing frank and fearless characters as can be seen by her moving performance in David Slade’s film, Hard Candy. This young star plays the part of Juno in such a realistic manner and wholeheartedly deserves her Oscar nomination. The casting in general in this delightful film is excellent. The relationships between each of the characters works amazingly well. The connection between Juno and her father is completely believable and a pleasure to watch. Whilst the opposing characteristics of Juno and her ‘boyfriend’ Paulie, played by Michael Cera, is humorous through its irony and works successfully.
Yes, it is true, this is not the sort of film to blow you away. There are no impressive Hollywood stunts or special effects. Yet, aided by the vision of Reitman and the outstanding talent of the Oscar winning screenwriter Diablo Cody, Juno is absolutely charming, hilariously funny and leaves the viewer feeling elated. It is definitely worth a look even if like me, teen style comedy is not usually your thing.
Sarah rating 7/10
Sarah Butt ©
Photographs courtesy of:
i assumed Juno was directed by the same guy that directed Knocked Up, because it’s about unexpected pregnancy and Michael Cera stars as Juno’s boyfriend (he was in Superbad, a close relative of Knocked Up).