It's really hard to even describe the movie, but here is my best effort:

The character development, dialogue & acting in the movie were amazing. As good as I've ever seen. It felt like every line was an adventure.

The content was vulgar at times, yet one could argue that it was appropriate for the story. The story probably came a lot closer to finding the reality of emotions that could come from the situation (teenage pregnancy) than most movies could. I think there was a balance that stayed away from glorifying or vilifying those involved. I think the hardships that were faced will get the attention of many viewers - probably a lot better than most adults could with a good lecture.

It takes quite a bit to make me tear-up in a movie (unless it's Hoosiers), but there is a scene in the mall that will stick with me for a while. It was a beautiful pause in the movie, and championed one of the underlying themes of the movie - - motherhood. (Just to set the record straight - no tears actually came out.)

The soundtrack was perfect. If you can imagine Norah Jones sounding more "folksy" and recording in her garage - that might get you close. The music was fun & helped set the mood for the movie. The soundtrack (and some of the filming too) might be cousins with Napolean Dynamite, although the content was anything but sophomoric. (and I liked ND too).

If somebody were to ask me if I'd recommend it, I guess it would depend on the audience. A definite no for younger viewers. The PG 13 would definitely apply. Probably a no for most Middle School students. Probably a yes for plenty of older teens. I also think parents could really benefit from it. Lots of parenting issues are in the background.

It's not often that a Hollywood movie deals fairly with issues like teen sex, abortion, adoption & parenthood in a way that is even close to reality (let alone healthy). If you watch this, I think you'll find it to be refreshing. If you go, be warned that the first couple minutes are probably the low point as far as crude material. So hang in there past that. I will tell you that I will watch it again, and probably more than once.