Juno

I've only watched a handful of movies that really give me the warm fuzzies. Lost in Translation, Half-Nelson, and Juno. I absolutely adored this movie.

Ellen Page, I am in love with you! Although there could never be a 16-year-old in real life who has the same charisma, wit, and adult-like mannerisms as Miss Page, she played the part so well and was absolutely believable as Juno MacGuff. I liked that they didn't make her TOO dark and cynical (like they tend to overly do in many teenage films), but rather balanced her sarcasm with a cute, bubbly appeal. Michael Cera? Yes, he sticks to his dorky roles but it hasn't gotten old yet. (I've loved him since Arrested Development and was thrilled when he made his way to the big screen!) He was SO funny and charming in this film. He wasn't too much of a wimp and I was really into the whole track team thing. Juno's step-mother (played by Allison Janney) was brilliant and realistic. I liked the fact that they didn't make her the type-casted "monster" that a step-mother always is. It was very clear that she loved Juno very much, but not in an overbearing way. Justin Bateman? Seriously, how many people know guys like his character? Not ready for children, still searching for his inner coolness because he somehow missed the rock star boat.... I know I certainly know people like him, and it was another way for me to relate to the film and make me feel like I was in it.

The soundtrack rocks too. I hope Juno wins all kinds of awards. They took a controversial, unexciting topic and turned it into a feel good film without being too over-the-top or cliche. Juno is the perfect blend of unintentional funny, clever dialogue, and meaningful characters.