In this modern age of violent superhero films, crude comedies, over the top action films, and product placements out the wazoo, sometimes it’s nice to see a simple, kind film once in a while. That’s exactly what writer/director Stephen Chbosky (“The Perks of Being a Wallflower”) has given audiences in his adaptation of the young adult book, “Wonder.”
“Wonder” doesn’t have a plot per se. The film’s runtime largely consists of telling the story of August, or Auggie, a young boy entering public school for the first time at the beginning of fifth grade due to his facial deformity. Instead of telling a specific plot, the movie splits the run-time up into focusing on different characters who all have some relation to Auggie.
It gives the film a very storybook feel, as we jump from character to character to see how Auggie has affected them. However, one character who is focused on doesn’t get as much screen time as it appears she should, and a few seem like they deserve their own segment, but don’t get one.
“Wonder” manages to be engaging throughout due largely to its talented cast. Owen Wilson and Julia Roberts play Auggie’s parents extremely well. The film manages to avoid making either one a specific type of worried parent by giving them depth and scenes talking to Auggie about his life and issues.
The rest of the ensemble all hold their own, with Izabela Vidovic, Danielle Rose Russell, Mandy Patinkin, and Daveed Diggs rounding out the cast. However, the real stars who manage to give them film its best performances are Jacob Tremblay as Auggie and Noah Jupe who plays Jack Will, Auggie’s best friend.
The film lights up with these two on screen, with a believable friendship that tugs at the heartstrings and performances that rival some of the seasoned adults in the film.
While the film may be “Wonder”-ful, it isn’t perfect. The movie is very slow, which isn’t a bad thing. It doesn’t take a huge dip until around two thirds of the way through, so it at least has already grabbed the audience’s attention by then. It also has a few jokes that just feel out of place in the film.
One joke is especially mean-spirited and doesn’t fit within the “Choose Kindness” atmosphere of the film. A scene where two kids talk back and forth between the chat feature of their Minecraft game also kind of ruins the movie’s otherwise timeless feeling.
However, “Wonder” manages to bring tears to the eyes of audience members multiple times due to the honesty of its performances. It also manages to be sweet and uplifting without ever feeling cheesy or saccharin, which is always a plus.
There’s also some moments of genuine imagination, as the film blends some of Auggie’s thought and imagination into the film itself. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does it’s a treat because it really works and manages to set the film apart, giving it a unique style and identity.
“Wonder” is hurt by some pacing issues and some story weirdness, but it elevates itself due to its wonderful attitude and believability, along with great performances and its message. It’s not going to set the world on fire, but it’s doesn’t want to. “Wonder” just wants to be kind, and for its audience to be kind too. And that is kind of brilliant. 4/5