Wonder

Rating: 10/10 (9 December 2005)

This film is so many things that it is difficult to put them all into words. The story of a little girl who goes to a magic land has delighted readers for fifty years now, but never before have filmmakers had the technology to convincingly create the things C.S. Lewis imagined with such clarity. The special effects and creatures are marvelous.
The acting is also laudable. The children deliver obviously heartfelt performances, particularly commendable because the story requires them to display so many different emotions.
The score contributes to the beauty of the film, adding a subtle layer of mood that never overpowers the action.
The story is well told, fast-paced and moving. As huge fan of the book, I am not disappointed.
Finally, I believe there is something transcendent about this movie. It moves beyond the realm of most children's films, even good ones, and explores themes of loss, courage, death, fear, weakness, and ultimate sacrifice.
I leave every viewer to find out for himself or herself what it all means.
What I believe you'll be sure of is that it definitely means something, and it just might take your breath away.