January 29, 2021, Apple TV+ premiered the film Palmer starring Justin Timberlake, Juno Temple, and Alisha Wainright.
The film tells the story of former high school football star Eddie Palmer (played by Justin Timberlake) after his return home after serving time in prison. While readjusting to life in his hometown, he develops a parental type relationship with young boy Sam (Ryder Allen). Sam’s mother Shelly (portrayed by Juno Temple) struggles with drug addiction and her character’s struggles with substance abuse and parenthood are seen throughout the film.
When asked about what advice she would give to those battling addiction Juno said:
You cannot save anyone, you can only love them, I believe that to be true. People need to be loved, so they can save themselves. My advice would also be don’t give up. I think that people can be very quick to brush drug addiction to the side, if somebody is battling with drug addiction, that doesn’t mean they’re not a fully formed, intelligent, emotional human.
Juno sees the complexities and nuances her character presents and the humanness behind addiction. Viewers will see Shelly navigate the complexities of motherhood and relationships while being a non-functioning addict. The film explores the beauties and challenges within second chances, something that Juno herself believes should always be available to people. The film will inspire and also move audiences through the lives of Shelly, Eddie, Sam, and Maggie.
