A Wonderful Breath of Fresh Air

Rating: 9/10 (8 March 2008)

This is an unusual little film. Admittedly, it's a film that tries very hard to be unusual, but for the most part it succeeds.
It's impossible to imagine an actress other than Ellen Page carrying off the role of Juno. She makes Juno witty, bright, cute, and awkward at the same time. Juno frequently displays the smug arrogance of the outsider, and yet Page manages to retain the character's likability.
Much has been made of the unusual dialog and speech patterns of films young people. Yes, they're a bit more multisyllabic than the typical 16 year old, but it works nicely with these characters.
It's a rare film that can weave such depressing themes as teen pregnancy, marital infidelity, divorce, jealousy, and ostracism into a life-affirming, "feel good" resolution, but that's exactly what Reitman has done.
See this film with an open mind. Put aside your political or moral biases, and let yourself connect with the character of Juno.