Sixteen year-old Juno is pregnant. It seems she became bored one day and initiated a sexual encounter with her friend Bleeker (Michael Cera). Despite this ill-considered decision, she shows a surprising amount of self-awareness for a teenager by admitting she's ill equipped to be a parent; it's refreshing. Abortion is considered but discarded after she spends a few minutes in the clinic. Her maturity is more pronounced than she realizes.
Screenwriter, Diablo Cody constructed a believable though unexpected scenario. We don't often witness teenagers admitting their limitations as Juno does. They want to prove they are capable, not admit weakness. Juno isn't your average girl; she's already a bit of an outcast and that's what makes this story work. She doesn't base her decisions on peer pressure but on inner reflection. It's a stretch for the adult imagination; the elements fit together nicely and make it easy to suspend disbelief.
The dialogue was over the top at times. Cody admitted to The Writer's Digest certain lines make her cringe. "When I watch it now," she said, "the dialogue seems very self-indulgent and undisciplined." Some might find it distracting, but if you focus on the unfolding story the language becomes less significant.
Ellen Page as Juno
Ellen Page is phenomenal and definitely deserved the Oscar nod. The mixture of bravado and vulnerability she brought to the role created a well-rounded character. Her nonchalance is believable as she informs the future adopting parents she would squeeze the baby out right then and hand it over but admits they should probably let it cook a little longer. Her tears after the birth of the child are equally convincing.
The supporting cast is a director's dream; Allison Janney, Jennifer Garner, Michael Cera and J.K. Simmons add appeal to the movie. Even though most of the characters are predominantly one-dimensional, the actors bringing them to life give them credibility. Jason Bateman's portrayal of an overgrown boy trapped in an adult's world is eerily similar to Juno's predicament and he played it masterfully.
Was Juno Oscar-Worthy?
Juno not only deals with the very grown-up problem of being pregnant she witnesses the demise of a relationship, questions the longevity of couples and partially self-destructs when she realizes her pregnancy keeps her from being asked to the junior prom.
Not everyone will enjoy this film. It's quirky and as Cody said, "self-indulgent" at times. However, it is a rendition of an age-old tale told from a refreshing standpoint. Is it Oscar worthy? Maybe not, but it's good none-the-less.
