Writer/Director: Stephen Chbosky
Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller
‘Meaningful Masterpiece’
“Why do nice people choose the wrong people to date?” asks Charlie. “We accept the love we think we deserve” replies Mr. Anderson.
There’s a huge difference between movies that entertain and movies that connect emotionally with an audience. Entertaining films are very enjoyable, but emotional films stay with a person for a long time. One of the most powerful and heart-wrenching movies of the year is “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”. The film adaptation of a novel by Stephen Chbosky, it follows a young social introvert named Charlie (Logan Lerman) who befriends two seniors. They welcome him to the real world of High School.
Book-to-film adaptations are usually restricted in the ways they deliver messages. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”, however, isn’t. On a very rare occasion, the director of this film is the author of the novel himself. This results in the movie being an experience, instead of a time-pass. Brilliantly directed, flawlessly acted, and wonderfully written, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” offers a realistic and memorable portrait of teenagers. It captures the confusion and trauma of a social recluse, with praiseworthy film making.
Stephen Chbosky’s direction is sure-handed. He manages to tell a story by using his knowledge of characters and settings. There’s a tremendous amount of emotions that spring out of this film’s story. Keeping the emotions raw and realistic, Chbosky orchestrates a fantastic cast and great screenplay that elevate this movie to another level. Andrew Dunn’s cinematography creates atmosphere, giving this movie a distinctive tone. Intimate moments are captured impressively with great lighting. A particular scene that stands out in this movie is the tunnel sequence. It is filmed beautifully with fitting music. Michael Brook’s soundtrack is fresh and invigorates this film tremendously.
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The whole cast is terrific and at the top of its game. Logan Lerman delivers a phenomenal performance as Charlie. He manages to be both down-to-earth and realistic in the way he portrays his character. Playing an emotionally scarred person is no easy job, however, Lerman is highly convincing. Its a performance that’s award-worthy in many aspects. Emma Watson is stunning as Sam. Coming off her “Harry Potter” phase, she manages to put on a different and inventive presentation for this film. Her likable personality and undeniable charm prove that she could become a versatile actress. Another standout in this movie is Ezra Miller, who is exuberant and enthusiastic as Patrick.
While it may not be towards everyone’s liking, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is still an outstanding movie about love, friendship, and life. The acting in this film is pure gold, while the movie itself is one of the best of the decade. This film is a necessary watch for any person struggling to cope with life. It delivers an astounding message of hope and freedom. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “only in the darkness can you see the stars.” This is one of those rare movies that does.
Nearly 30 years following the publication of legendary literature about the lives of wallflower teenagers, it’s a powerful tribute towards a novel that changed the world forever by depicting struggles endured by adolescents suffering from mental disorders.
5/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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