Juno the Kind I Mean

Every once in a while you encounter a creative work or experience that restores (or reinforces, depending on your particular state of mind) your faith in humanity and reminds you how much you like people.  “Juno” is that kind of movie.  I cannot recommend it highly enough. 

Juno has been compared by many to “Little Miss Sunshine,” a fellow Sundance favorite.  It’s a fair comparison insofar as both films are quirky, showcase impressive performances by burgeoning talent, and are, thankfully, not your average large production fare.  The principal distinguishing factor is that Juno is superior by far.   

The premise isn’t new – “A comedy about growing up…and the bumps along the way” – but the presentation is refreshingly matter-of-fact and the acting is so natural, that the result is an unqualified pleasure.  Ellen Page, who plays high-schooler Juno, gives what appears to be an effortless performance and delivers sophisticated dialogue with a frankness that makes it impressively believable.  Page delivers a spot-on performance that is a ticklish mix of suburban slacker and cherubim.  There are also very strong performances from her supporting cast – a collection of friends and family who are as endearing as they are unconventional. 

Go see it.  You’ll be glad you did.