Stephen Chbosky’s novel has been adapted for the big screen by none other than the man himself. Also the writer, director, and executive producer of the film – Chbosky has made a beautiful, endearing, and brilliant film that should last the test of time. It is a perfect film that needs to be seen by everyone at least once in their lifetime, it is a true classic.
Charlie (Logan Lerman) is a shy, troubled young man with disaster in his past entering high school, as well as an aspiring writer. Patrick (Ezra Miller) and Sam (Emma Watson) are two outcast seniors that have learned how to function in their own way. When the three meet, their story begins – showing Charlie how to realize who he is and how to be.
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is a timeless coming-of-age story that teaches us to live in the moment and to be ourselves. It is full of feeling from start to finish that is fostered by the incredible soundtrack, almost on par with that of “Garden State.” Although focusing more on the drama-romance genre, the film still can be compared to the high school films of John Hughes for the ’90s generation. It is one of the year’s best films, if not the best.
In an audience Q & A session, Chbosky explained that his film is an “unapologetically emotional movie” that interestingly enough takes place before cellphones and the internet changed communication forever. Also that what he wishes his audience to take away from his “delicate” film is that “no matter what you go through, you can turn it into something great.” The performances were also something that were extremely vital to the film, which is completely stellar by all.
Paul Rudd co-stars as Mr. Anderson, Charlie’s English teacher that provides him with books that inspire him to write. Rudd’s performance is not like any he’s played so far, his character based on Chbosky’s own mentor – Stewart Stern (2 time Oscar nominated screenwriter of “Rebel without a Cause”). Other co-stars include Dylan McDermott (“American Horror Story”), Kate Walsh (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Nicholas Braun (“Red State”), Tom Savini (“From Dusk Till Dawn”), Melanie Lynskey (“Ever After: A Cinderella Story”), and Joan Cusack.
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is now playing in select theaters, then opening everywhere October 5.
