The Week in Reviews 3/30/08 - 4/6/08

Featured Review

JUNO (2007)

Directed by Jason Reitman
Starring Ellen Page, Michael Cera, & Jennifer Garner

Acting: (8.5) Ellen Page's wit and sarcasm come across as genuine. She's cute and likable and shows unexpected range as a young actress. The characters are perfect, but I'm not sure if it was the acting or screen play that brought everything together. The only thing keeping me from saying it was "great" performance by Page is that the part seems to be tailor made for her. I don't think she had to challenge herself much in the role. That said, she played the part beautifully and the recognition she received during award season was well deserved.

Effects / Cinematography: (8.5) This film's cinematography will cement itself as an indi classic. Everything from the scribbled fonts to the music and wardrobes were spot on. The continuous appearances made by the high school track team was funny as well.


Plot: (9) Here is where I think this film really shines. Cody's script is incredible. Turning teenage pregnancy into comedy is not an easy task. It is so easy to turn the topic into a Lifetime Original or after school PSA. Cody avoided cliches and produced a humorous and heartfelt story that was both unique and entertaining.


Entertainment: (8.5) The short running time and witty dialogue kept me engaged throughout the entire film. What's great about this film is that nearly every character with a speaking part produces some sort of laughs. The fact that I got through the entire movie without thinking "I hate Jennifer Garner" speaks volumes about the script and entertainment value of the film.


Cumulative Score: 8.5


Other Films this Week
Atonement (2007)
Directed by Joe Wright

Starring Keira Knightly & James McAvoy

Acting: (8.5)
Cinematography (8.5)
Plot: (8)
Entertainment (7.5)

Cumulative: (8)


August Rush (2007)
Directed by Kirsten Sheridan

Starring Freddie Highmore, Robin Williams, Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers

Acting: (4)
Cinematography (6)
Plot (4.5)
Entertainment (5.5)

Cumulative: (5)