Response to Juno
by bobbyg
I have heard about Juno since its release in 2007 but never had the opportunity to watch it till today. Overall I enjoyed the movie as covers some important aspects of the representation of reproduction and of teenage pregnancy. I think that this movie plays an important role in ‘furthering’ of the debate of reproducing politics in both empowering and controversial ways. This is a major step compared to many of the early movies (as seen in the YouTube clips of abortion in popular culture). The ‘good’ or empowering ways this movie displays the political narratives is by allowing Juno to have this ‘power’ of making her own decisions. This sense of empowerment is seen in the beginning the film when she was making her decision about getting an abortion and also when she decided to carrying out her pregnancy. Another positive connection we see is the reaction of Juno’s surroundings. The sense of ‘cultural anxieties’ is not apparent from her father, step mom or boyfriend. Although it is a movie, it allows us to think how the discussion of teenage pregnancy and the previous taboo that has been set for abortion is seen in a lighter light.
On the other hand, I found an article on aboutnews.com that points out that the film avoids the real issues about teenage pregnancy. In the article Gloria Feldt points out that “ there is very little angst that Juno experiences over carrying the baby and giving it up, pointing out that the character is disconnected to the deep-seated emotions that pregnant teens feel” (Lowen, n.d, para 3). She further argues that the films narrative implies that carrying a pregnancy to term and giving it up for adoption is nothing (Lowen, n.d, para. 3). I found this article particularly interesting because it brings it back to the discussion of how some people analyze reproductive politics and in turn always target the mother, even though in the movie Juno made it clear that she is not ready to become a mother.
Lowen, L. (n.d.). What “Juno” Says About Teen Pregnancy, Abortion and Choice. Retrieved September 30, 2014, from http://womensissues.about.com/od/teenpregnancy/a/JunoAntiChoice.htm
Bobby, thanks so much for this contribution on the very important issue of representation in the movie. I think you hold the tension well of how, in some sense, the movie opens discussion and shows some moments of empowerment; and yet, there are larger issues at stake (which you describe in paragraph 2). I’d love to hear more about what you think those larger issues are (“the real issues about teenage pregnancy” as you say). Thanks for your post!
Kimberly