Juno

Title Juno
Director Jason Reitman
Writer Diablo Cody
Starring Ellen Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Allison Janney, J.K. Simmons
ISBN 0788817795
Distributor Buena Vista Home Entertainment
Copyright Date 1999 (DVD)
Interest Age 13+
Rating PG-13
Genre Contemporary Life; Issues: Teen Pregnancy
Plot Summary
Juno is a film about a teenage girl of the same name who is witty, intelligent and wise beyond her years. When she finds out she is pregnant, she first thinks that she will have an abortion as she knows that she is too young and immature to be a parent. But when she encounters a fellow classmate at the abortion clinic who forces her to rethink her decision, she decides to keep the baby and give it up for adoption. Juno's parents are loving and kind, supporting her the whole way, though they certainly understand the severity of the situation. Of course, Juno also has to tell the father who is also a high schooler and not-quite her boyfriend. Juno thinks she has found the perfect parents in an affluent couple, but will they be able to give her baby the life it deserves?
Critical Evaluation
This movie was a huge hit for a reason. The character of Juno is almost unbelievably likeable, in a mouthy, confident way that makes her seem much older than she is. Her boyfriend is adorably clueless and their relationship, though immature, is endearing. Particularly likeable are her parents who are fiercely supportive while realistically shocked at Juno's decision. This is a great film to recommend to teens, particularly pregnant teenagers, who might need a more optimistic portrayal of this frightening and challenging situation. This film presents a nice balance to the often bleak outlook that most people have towards teen pregnancy and the assumption that teenagers who get pregnant are irresponsible, come from broken homes and are wildly promiscuous.
Reader’s Annotation
Juno's pregnant and she's keeping the baby. Now it's time to find the perfect parents.
Curriculum Ties None
DVDtalking Ideas
1. Tell a plot summary about the story, focusing on the fact and end with a question to the audience: Would you have done the same in Juno's shoes?
Challenge Issues
Issue: sexually explicit, inappropriately light depiction of teen pregnancy
Defense: This film ultimately has a positive message that teen pregnancy, though a serious issue, can be dealt with in a positive, supportive manner and goes a long way to validate the experiences of teenage girls who choose to give up their babies for adoption.
Why did I include this DVD?
2009 Fabulous Films for Young Adults (ALA, 2009); Oscar nominations (Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Writing, Best Director).