Photo courtesy of Summit Entertainment.Director, screenwriter and novelist Stephen Chbosky has adapted his critically acclaimed novel “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” into a movie that will genuinely affect viewers of all ages. His coming-of-age tale is one that translates to people of all walks of life.
The story revolves around a young boy, Charlie, who is starting his first year of high school after an extended stay in the hospital. Fans of the book understand why, but it is not fully explained in the movie until later on. Charlie is socially awkward, naïve and friendless until he meets Sam and Patrick, stepsiblings who introduce him to the “fun” side of high school. The courageous story does not shy away from drugs, alcohol, first love, death and sexual awakenings.
Logan Lerman plays Charlie. While the book tells its story though a series of letters where Charlie describes his life to an unknown recipient, the movie incorporates Charlie’s letters in key scenes. The role of Charlie is one Lerman was born to play as he portrays the socially anxious and observant character impeccably.
Ezra Miller, who plays Patrick, and Emma Watson, who plays Sam, round out the cast. Miller is hilarious and polarizing as Charlie’s openly homosexual friend, and displays remarkable emotional depth in some of the movie’s most interesting scenes. While Watson’s American accent isn’t perfect, she is very convincing as the conflicted Sam.
This cast tackles difficult, but very real issues in a way that is not forced. For example, Charlie sees his sister’s boyfriend hit her in the middle of a heated argument and struggles to keep it a secret from his parents. Charlie also finds difficulty in burying his passionate feelings for Sam while also coming to terms with his tumultuous past.
A stellar soundtrack compliments Chbosky’s vision of the book on the screen. “Asleep” by The Smiths is heard and mentioned a few times by the characters as it is in the novel.
Miller absolutely steals the show with his improvised one-liners and hilarious delivery. Watson’s character, Sam, is plagued with various troubles throughout the movie and Watson accurately communicates that to the audience. However, it is very clear that this is Lerman’s opportunity to shine. Charlie is a relatable character and the audience finds a bit of themselves in his life and his story as they join him in laughter and in tears throughout the film.
Overall, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is an incredible film adaptation of a cult classic. Fans of the book will love the movie, and hopefully be inspired by such a heartfelt story.
The movie opens Friday exclusively at Harkins Tempe Marketplace and Harkins Scottsdale 101. The film will be released everywhere on Oct. 5.
Rated: PG-13
Pitchforks: 5/5
Reach the reporter at okhiel@asu.edu
