When I saw the previews for "Juno," I realized it wasn't just a movie I wanted to see, but a movie I HAD to see. "Juno" is the story of a young woman who gets pregnant during her junior year in high school. What follows is her 9-month journey, which includes all of the ups and downs of an unexpected pregnancy as well as a few shockers.
Juno (Ellen Page) was refreshing for so many reasons. She is not helpless and dim-witted like teens are so often portrayed. Instead, she's a witty, smart and strong-willed young woman who doesn't really care what people think. Similarly refreshing was her relationship with the father of her child, a nerdy but sweet guy named Bleeker (Michael Cera of "Super Bad"). Although their relationship isn't clearly defined, at its foundation is a loving friendship that endures everything.
The movie made me think about my own experience - taking several pregnancy tests because I just couldn't believe the results (Juno does the same after downing an entire jug of "Sunny D") and being freaked out by the idea of abortion. It also made me laugh, which is something most people don't associate with teen pregnancy. Laughter. My experience has taught me that even out of the most tragic moments in life, you can find laughter and hope. I'm glad this movie echoes that.
In the end, Juno decides to give her baby up for adoption. Because of my own experience, I talk a lot about keeping the baby and raising it yourself. "Juno" shows an alternative, which can also be very difficult. What a noble decision it is to give your baby to a family who can't conceive.
Ultimately, "Juno" proves that teen pregnancy isn't a black and white issue. It doesn't just happen to "certain people" with "certain circumstances," and the outcomes vary. What is most important, however, is the need to love and support each other no matter what our circumstances and our decisions. That's the biggest lesson in "Juno," and one I am thankful for.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
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