Juniper
Juniper

Juniper

2021Movie94 minEnglish

When a self-destructive teenager is suspended from school and asked to look after his feisty alcoholic grandmother as a punishment, the crazy time they spend together turns his life around.

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Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes71%
Google Users87%
Director: Matthew SavilleGenres: Drama, Comedy

Plot Summary

A troubled teenager, struggling with his grandmother's terminal illness and his own life choices, forms an unlikely bond with her. As they spend more time together, they begin to confront their pasts and find a path towards healing and acceptance. The film explores themes of family, loss, and finding purpose in the face of mortality.

Critical Reception

Juniper received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its performances, particularly Charlotte Rampling's, and its sensitive exploration of heavy themes with a touch of dark humor. The film was noted for its emotional depth and character development, though some found its pacing occasionally uneven.

What Reviewers Say

  • Charlotte Rampling delivers a compelling performance as a dying matriarch.
  • The film balances dark humor with genuine emotional resonance.
  • A touching exploration of family dynamics and end-of-life themes.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's emotional depth and the strong performances, finding it a moving and thought-provoking experience. Many highlighted the poignant portrayal of the grandmother and the developing relationship between her and her grandson.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Film and Best Actor (George Ferrier) at the New Zealand Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in the director's childhood home, adding a personal touch to the production.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Steve Parker

Steve Parker

JUNIPER is a heart-warming comedy-drama about a self-destructive teenager (Sam) who is forced to take care of his feisty alcoholic grandmother (Ruth). Charlotte Rampling, an actor I have never really been impressed with, perfectly suits her...