Any Bones That Need Collecting?

Rating: Null/10 (14 April 2008)

I didn't know what all the hype was about and some friends recommended 'Juno'. Thus, I finally watched it yesterday. While I agree with some that it is slightly over-hyped, I liked it as it was a very pleasant watch. However, my only problem is that a lot of the themes are a bit too sugarcoated and slightly a bit too manipulative. I liked how Juno is shown as this selfish, self-centred, careless teen who gradually grows into a caring and considerate person. Cody's writing is solid but while this film centres around Juno, the supporting characters could have been further developed and used a bit more focus (as I found them very interesting). The dialogues are noteworthy (most of the time) especially the clever one-liners. The film has a very young feel and the soundtrack adds to the youthfulness. Another strength of 'Juno' is its performances. Ellen Page acts well although, in the beginning, she does not look interested in the role (However, I don't think it's an award worthy performance as 2007 had stronger female leads). Moreover, Juno wasn't an easy role to play but Page does a decent job in the end. Michael Cera too does well as the tic-tac addict but one will recognize George-Michael Bluth from 'Arrested Development'. J.K. Simmons is fun to watch in a lighter role. Allison Janney is marvelous as the supportive and friendly step-mom. Jason Bateman is great as Mark the composer who, where through Juno, is reminded of himself at a younger age and the dreams he had. Jennifer Garner is likable in a different role. For me, 'Juno' was a nice fun movie but there were so many other films and performances that deserved more accolade. It's a great movie but not a masterpiece. But, anyway, the Oscars are overrated most of the time. It cleverly avoids cliché and melodrama but the issues that it deals with are handled a little too lightly. Nonetheless, it's a nice watch. Director Jason Reitman has made a movie that keeps a smile in the end.