“I cried.” That’s about the only thing I heard about this movie before finally deciding to watch it, but I’m glad that I did. Perks of Being a Wallflower, staring a few of my favorite actors, is one of the most relatable movies I have ever seen.
The movie is from the point of view and narration of Charlie (Logan Lerman), a freshman in high school who has had a troubled past. From the beginning Charlie’s unknown past is what keeps him apart from everyone.
The movie revolves around Charlie’s transition back into school after a year “away” from other kids. After only talking to his family for the past year-or-so of his life, Charlie has a major case of social awkwardness. To make it worse, not even his own sister will talk to him while at school.
Soon, after spending a few months with only his English teacher as a friend, Charlie chooses to approach Patrick (Ezra Miller), also known as Nobody, to be his first friend. As Patrick is one of the only gay boys at the school, he openly accepts Charlie as himself. This is undoubtedly the first time Charlie has experienced acceptance since the unknown “incident.”
This group of friends, including Sam (Emma Watson) who is my favorite actress, adopts Charlie as one of their own. Especially, when they discover his traumatic past.
The movie completes Charlie’s journey in becoming a near-normal kid who has friends and family who understand him. This movie’s themes and stories relate so well to today’s teenagers that people have said it’s the modern-day version of The Breakfast Club.
Charlie’s story, though more extreme than most, includes incredibly relatable aspects that draws the viewer in. Most people have experienced pain, depression and guilt of some kind, so watching a character on screen go through something similar jerks at the tears.
This movie is one of the best movies I’ve seen in terms of character development. The mannerisms of the characters bring you to feel for them and with them. They become so real to the viewer, that each circumstance brings life to the screen.
Emma Watson as Sam was perfectly cast. She gave an incredible performance, being the quirky and lovable love interest of Charlie. She brings a sense of innocence and pure personality, as Sam is completely herself.
The music in the movie perfects each seen, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. The acting was impressive and the sets were very realistic.
The movie also did a great job of delaying the truth in Charlie’s past, but revealing in the last 20 minutes of the flick. The small hints the cast gives you throughout the film, made me want to watch it again so I could truly see it fully develop.
I would encourage everyone to go see this movie because it has a timeless story that has something for everyone. When thinking back on the film, I can’t help but think of myself in part of each of the characters’ lives.
Perks of Being a Wallflower is rated PG-13 for the appeal of mature thematic material, drug and alcohol use, sexual content including references and a fight – all involving teens. The flick runs at 102 minutes and is playing at most local theaters.
For more reviews, read the Oct. 31 article, ‘Diabolical Box’ develops characters, plot (VIDEO).
