While teen pregnancy is a serious matter, the film Juno directed by Jason Reitman (Thank You for Smoking) turns this commonly perceived problem into a poignant comedy.

The life of a high school girl isn’t always easy. Yet through her teen pregnancy, a girl is able to find herself and those around her.

Although considered a specialty or “Indie” film, Reitman manages to attract top names from both the film and television industries.

Juno MacGuff, played by Ellen Page (The Stone Angel, X-Men: The Last Stand), is not your typical cheerleading, student body president. She enjoys Iggie and the Stooges, playing in her band, and blue slushies. Then her pregnancy hits and life takes a 180 degree spin. No longer do people stare at her for being a freak, but instead for being a freak with a baby.

What this movie lacks in plot, is overshadowed by the experiences each character encounters. Juno (Page) is supported throughout the entire process by stepmother Jen (Allison Janney), father Mac (J.K. Simmons) and friend Leah (Olivia Thirlby.)

The adoptive parents Vanessa and Mark Loring (Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman) are infertile and become intricately entwined in the entire pregnancy,

From beginning to end, Juno’s friend and the father of her baby Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera), goes through the motions of joy and grief as his mother shields him from Juno and struggles to comprehend the incredible opportunities this baby could offer.

This film is unique in its approach towards pregnancy. It is sometimes dark while at other times funny, as can be seen through Juno’s take on her own pregnancy. Through jokes, sarcasm, love and laughter the plot unfolds.

Juno and Paulie’s relationship is unique to this motion picture. As kids who grew up together as social outcasts, they were naturally forced together. Some might view their relationship as awkward and the intercourse, a foolish act on their part. But others would see it as an inheritable consummation of their intimate friendship.

As a movie that talks about teen pregnancy and maturation, each character grows in his or her own way. Juno’s pregnancy brings a family together and brings out the real “bumps” along the way.