Rating of
3.5/4
On the Outside Looking In
Chris Kavan - wrote on 06/18/13
Rarely does a cast come together as well as they did in Perks of Being a Wallflower. When you get such amazing performances out of young actors - it makes me think that the future of Hollywood is in good hands. Logan Lerman, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller all give outstanding performances - and the supporting cast, from Paul Rudd as the inspirational English teacher, Tom Savini as the put-upon shop teacher and Dyland McDermott and Kate Walsh as dad and mom - all work in smaller parts. Mae Whitman, Johnny Simmons and Nina Dobrev also shine in supporting roles.
This is a coming-of-age story that doesn't skirt around some tough issues. Sure you have the pressure of navigating the minefield of High School - but things like relationships, drug use, dealing with grief and trauma, suicide and homosexuality are all touched upon. The great thing is, the movie isn't preachy or sentimental - thanks to author/screenwriter/director Stephen Chbosky - it is all played pretty much how I could imagine it actually turning out. Again, the young actors really were key and did not disappoint.
Besides the story and characters - the music provides an excellent backdrop - from The Smiths to David Bowie to Sonic Youth to... The Rocky Horror Picture Show? - Yes - it all works and is one of the best soundtracks to come along in awhile. In this film, the music is just as much a character as the people in it - and it shows.
I highly recommend this to adults and teens - it works on so many different levels and it's that good. Blockbusters and superheros may get all the attention - but it's films like this that make me remember how good movies can get.
Recent Comments
LeeAnn M. - wrote on 08/26/13 at 06:08 PM CT
The Perks of Being a Wallflower Review comment
I watched The Perks of Being a Wallflower today on DVD to make sure it was something my high school freshman daughter could watch. At first, I was in shock...I didn't remember high school being this hard. Who was I kidding? High school is this hard and it sucks! This movie made me cry and wish there was something out there like it when I was coming of age. Well, at least my generation had John Hughes films. I think you are correct about stating it is entertaining for both teens and adults.
MikePA - wrote on 06/19/13 at 12:29 PM CT
The Perks of Being a Wallflower Review comment
Yes!! I agree completely. I adore this freakin movie.
