Movie Review: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Directed by: Stephen Chbosky
Screenplay by: Stephen Chbosky
Produced by: Lionsgate Films
In Theatres: September 21, 2012 Limited
Length: 1 hr. 43 min.
Rated: PG-13

A funny and touching coming-of-age story based on the beloved best-selling novel by Stephen Chbosky, THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER is a modern classic that captures the dizzying highs and crushing lows of growing up. Starring Logan Lerman, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller, THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER is a moving tale of love, loss, fear and hope--and the unforgettable friends that help us through life.

This past Monday, I was able to go see an advanced screening of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, courtesy of Simon & Schuster Canada - big thanks to them and to Kristilyn of Reading in Winter for setting the whole thing up!

The Perks of Being a Wallflower tells the earnest story of socially awkward teen Charlie who gets taken under the wing of a particularly awesome and open-minded group of friends. Charlie relates his tale through a series of letters to an anonymous friend as he fumbles through his freshman year and deals with problems relating to bullying, sex, drugs, and death. It's a tale about dealing with abuse, coping with grief, friendship, celebrating life, and acceptance of one's true self. It really has it all.

The movie was a remarkably loyal adaptation of the book, leaving out only very minor scenes and managing to capture the message and essence of the novel. And it's no wonder, really: the novel's author, Stephen Chbosky, not only wrote the screenplay for the film, but also directed it. And this makes all the difference when it comes to book-to-movie adaptations. The movie was decidedly less racy than the book, presumably to ensure a PG-13 Rating, and Charlie seemed less awkward than he was in the book, but those were the only major differences. It was apparent that a lot of thought went into creating an authentic adaptation that would please the fans of this iconic book.

Everyone is probably curious about how Emma Watson, who played Charlie's love interest, Sam, did in her first major role post-Potter: I couldn't help but fixate on her accent the entire time, which was not always truly American, but I do think she held her own and proved that she has an acting career beyond Potter. The standout star, however, has absolutely got to be Charlie's gay best friend, Patrick - played by Ezra Miller - who gave a brilliant and charismatic performance. Logan Lerman, who played Charlie, also did a great job as the movie's lead; I was quite moved at times during his more emotional scenes.

I always recommend reading the book first before seeing the movie adaptation and it's no different in this case: you should read The Perks of Being a Wallflower because it is poignant and insightful and hilarious and brilliant. BUT if you find that for whatever reason, you are unable to do so, you could probably get away with just watching the movie because it was so faithful. I feel like the Book Police are going to come out and shoot me just for typing that. You really should read the book though - it's a super quick read!

The Perks of Being a Wallflower had an official limited release on September 21, 2012, so it may already be playing in your city. And if not, then it likely will be soon!

Have you read this book or seen the movie yet? If not, do you plan to? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

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