Juno

Juno released in 2007, is a coming of age drama starring Ellen Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, and others. The film was critically polarized with some hailing it as a one of the best movies of the year, while others harshly criticized it for its portrayal of teenage pregnancy. The film interestingly enough was praised by both pro-life groups as well as pro-choice groups, though the writer and films lead actress both have stated their strong pro-choice stances, and have stated that the film strongly supports women's right to make the choice that is best for them. Some critics though say that the film glorifies teenage pregnancy and have even coined the term the "Juno Effect" for the trend of young girls becoming pregnant after watching the film. The film it self was beautifully done, well cast, and beautifully shot. The film has a definite artistic flair to it, that starts off with the beautiful rotoscoped scene of Juno walking and drinking a bottle of Sunny-D. The film is supposed to take place in and around Minneapolis and St Cloud MN, however by request of the director was filmed in British Columbia Canada, which honestly ended up looking very similar to the Minnesota locations that it was set in. The costumes were well chosen, and captured well the look of teenage hipsters (for lack of better word) at the time. The casting could not be more perfectly done, especially with the strong lead roles of Ellen Page and Michael Cera. Another thing that really sets this film apart as an amazing film is the nearly perfect with much of the music done by Kimya Dawson as a solo artist, as well as in her various bands. One critic even stated that the film was nothing more than a slick way to sell copies of the soundtrack. I can remember the soundtrack being highly successful, and everyone having a copy of it. Would I recommend this film? Yes, I have loved this ever since I first saw it, even though I have a few friends that are highly critical of the film. I don't know if this is a must see film, and kind of slightly blame it for the rise of hipsters, but it is still a film that I love very much, and that has a special place in my heart. This film in its own right is an important film and an important part of the time period in which it was set.