She’s played a mutant, a teenager on a revenge mission, and now a pregnant high school girl grappling with impending motherhood. Hollywood is taking notice of Ellen Page — the talented Canadian import, who is already generating award season buzz for her title role in “Juno.”
The 20-year-old actress got her start on Canadian television, but eventually came south to unleash her acting skills on America. Her breakout role came in the dark thriller, “Hard Candy,” as a scorned teenager looking for some major payback, opposite acting- heavyweights Patrick Wilson and Sandra Oh.
To the delight of fanboys and fangirls everywhere, Ellen was next cast as Kitty Pryde, aka Shadowcat, in “X-Men: The Last Stand.” She took on one of Marvel Comic’s toughest characters, the Juggernaut, holding her own against his unstoppable mutant powers.
In what is shaping up to be a career-defining role, Ellen will next be seen as the lead character in the coming-of-age dark comedy “Juno.”
Ellen describes her newest film as a ” hilarious, wonderful, corky, fantastic, story.” Juno also stars Michael Cera of “Superbad” fame, along with Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman.
Ellen plays Juno MacGuff, a teenage girl who gets pregnant and decides to search for a couple to adopt her baby. Ellen brought an unflinching intensity and sophisticated comedic talent well beyond her years to the role, creating a heartfelt and memorable performance, sure to be noticed. Ellen was armed with Diablo Cody’s remarkable first screenplay and Jason Reitman in the director’s chair.
Ellen believes “Juno” is a film that explores “the good, and the bad, and the pretty of it all,” when it comes to facing one of life’s overwhelming decisions.
Access isn’t the only one taking notice of Ellen’s talents. The Spirit Awards, which honors excellence in independent films, has nominated Ellen for Best Lead-Actress, for her work in “Juno.”
In what could be the best way for any actor to start the New Year, Oscar buzz is swirling around the young star.
If the acting co-star company you keep is any indication for the future, Ellen has a great deal to look forward to. Up next, she’ll star alongside Oscar-winner Ellen Burstyn in “The Stone Angel” and Dennis Quaid and Sarah Jessica Parker in “Smart People.”
Be sure to check out Ellen Page’s hilarious and heart-warming performance in “Juno” opening in limited release on Dec. 5.
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