Wonder
The brief
Stephen Chbosky turns what could've been saccharine inspiration porn into something genuinely warm and affecting, anchored by Jacob Tremblay's natural performance as a kid with facial differences starting mainstream school. The film smartly shifts perspectives between family members, giving Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson real emotional weight as parents navigating their own fears and guilt. It hits the expected beats but earns its tears through small, honest moments rather than manufactured drama. Perfect for anyone who loved The Perks of Being a Wallflower or needs a good cry that doesn't feel manipulative.
The verdict
If you're drawn to earnest family dramas that explore kindness and resilience without cynicism, this is a beautifully acted film that earns its emotional moments through genuine character work. If you're allergic to uplifting stories about overcoming adversity or prefer your dramas with more edge, you'll likely find this too warm and predictable for your taste.
Watch with
- 👨👩👧👦 Perfect for family movie night with tweens/teens
- ⚠️ Bring tissues for the emotional moments
Heads up
- Bullying and mean comments about appearance (moderate)
- Brief medical procedures and hospital scenes (brief)
Credits
- Director
- Stephen Chbosky
- Cast
- Jacob Tremblay, Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, Izabela Vidovic, Noah Jupe, Millie Davis, Bryce Gheisar
Official synopsis
The story of August Pullman – a boy with facial differences – who enters fifth grade, attending a mainstream
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)
Both explore childhood innocence confronting prejudice and human cruelty.
Total runtime: 1h 53m + 1h 34m = 3h 27m
