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Every day, parents send their children out into the world, knowing all too well that kids (and grown-ups, too) can be mean. And in Wonder, a special little boy faces ignorance and bullying with help from his loving family and a couple of good friends.
Wonder stars Jacob Tremblay as Auggie Pullman, a boy who was born with a genetic condition that, among other things, makes his face look different. Though he’s been homeschooled his entire life, Auggie’s parents decide that the beginning of fifth grade is the right time to send him to a regular school. And as he bravely goes to school each day, hoping for acceptance—and maybe even a friend—he teaches those who meet him that there’s so much more to him than just his outward appearance.
Based on the New York Times bestseller, Wonder is a moving story told from a number of different perspectives. It’s the story of a little boy who’s really just like any other boy—with dreams and fears and a goofy sense of humor—and who, like any other boy, just wants to fit in. It’s the story of a sister (Izabela Vidovic) who’s spent her life in the background, trying her best not to cause the family any more problems. It’s the story of a mother (Julia Roberts) who’s put her own dreams on hold for her family—and who worries about her special little boy. And it’s the story of the children who face their own challenges and fears and insecurities every single day. Mostly, though, it’s a story about acceptance and compassion—about being a friend and standing up to bullies.
The characters here are undeniably charming—even in the moments when they fail, when they give in to self-pity or peer pressure, when they just want to hide from their fears. Because those moments are the ones that make them all so real.
Jacob Tremblay gives another powerful performance as a remarkable little boy who touches the lives of those around him who can get beyond their own fears and insecurities. But while Auggie gets the spotlight, it’s not just about him—and, for that reason, it will speak to different audience members in different ways. Some young viewers will learn about accepting others and being a friend—about standing up to bullies. Others will learn about facing their fears and trying something new. And parents will be moved by the Pullmans’ fears and concerns as they send their child to school, knowing how hard it will be for him. And that ensures that there won’t be a dry eye left in the theater by the end. Admittedly, it can be a bit heavy-handed at times, but it’s a heartwarming film about the power of kindness and friendship.
Wonder isn’t an easy film. It’s challenging—and even emotionally exhausting. But it’s also sweet and funny and moving in the best of ways—a charming drama with something to say to every member of the audience.
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