Junior

Mystery Science Theater 3000 host Michael J. Nelson called Junior “the second-worst comedy ever made”. Famed film reviewer Roger Ebert disagreed, saying “I know this sounds odd, but Schwarzenegger is perfect for the role. Observe his acting in Junior, and you’ll see skills that many serious actors could only envy.”

Prior to directing Junior, Ivan Reitman, of Ghostbusters fame, had worked with Arnie on Twins and Kindergarten Cop. Both were bigger box-office hits, but Reitman himself always said that, of the three film, Junior was his favourite. And it’s easy to see why. Arnie and Danny DeVito are great foils for each other—seeming to genuinely enjoy each other’s company and performances.  While Emma Thompson is on good form as the klutzy scientist, Dr. Diana Reddin. In fact, both Arnie and Thompson received Golden Globe Award nominations for their performances in the film.

Dr. Alex Hesse (Schwarzenegger) and his associate, Dr. Larry Arbogast (DeVito), develop a new miracle pregnacy drug. When the government forbids further testing, Alex and Larry secretly move forward with a daring plan…to impregnate Alex. Along the way, they must cope with a snooping, villainous research administrator (Frank Langella) and the brilliant Dr Reddin (Thompson). Thus the seeds are sown for an high-spirited whirlwind of humor, romance, and tender insights into the magnificent power of maternal love. 

Junior has weathered surprisingly well and while it’s true that it’s no top-shelf comedy, it more than compensates with its genuinely warmth. A light, fun, screwball-comedy.

Extras: Featurette: Interviews with Arnold Schwarzenegger, Danny DeVito, Emma Thompson and Director Ivan Reitman  / Theatrical Trailer