Perks of Being a Wallflower – A Devastatingly Beautiful High School Story

Rating: 10/10 (12 October 2016)

Perks of being a Wallflower is a 2012 comedy-drama film based off of the novel by the same title. The movie is directed by Stephen Chbosky, who is also the author of the book. The film stars include Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller. This adorably awkward film is about accepting who you are regardless of the circumstances and being content with your flaws.
The film focuses on the life of high school freshman Charlie Kelmeckis. Charlie is struggling to gain a social life while battling with depression, repressed memories of abuse, and his best friend's recent suicide. At home, he watches as his older sister's boyfriend abuses her, which takes a toll on him. He can't seem to find a social group that will accept him, so he keeps to himself. Eventually, he meets Patrick and Sam, two quirky step-siblings who help him find his way. He learns that they too are finding their way, even as seniors preparing to go to college. Sam allows guys to treat her terribly while Patrick copes with hiding his romantic relationship with the school's quarterback. Emma Watson perfectly balances both insecurity and flirtatiousness when playing the character of Sam. She does an amazing job of embodying Sam's fragility and undying need to be accepted by others. Ezra Miller makes Patrick shine, his ability to be humorous in almost every part of the movie is his best quality, along with his genuine love for all people. His resilience in the face of his bullies and critics is a trait to be admired. Logan Lerman is Charlie. Charlie's awkwardness and innocence makes him extremely lovable. He is always concerned for other people and is extremely humble.
The movie's strength lies in its message. The motif of embracing your imperfections is implemented throughout the whole film. The spotlight on mental health is prevalent. Showing how people with depression are able to put on a façade as if everything is fine. As a person who struggles with depression, this movie always hits home. It perfectly encapsulates what it is like to not be OK. The movie is filled with touching moments and focuses on what is, in my opinion, one of the best movie quotes of all time, "We accept the love we think we deserve".
The film's use of soft lightning and scenery aids in highlighting some of its best moments. The film is set in 1991, which the cinematographer makes very obvious by his use of a more dull color scheme through out the movie, almost as if the viewer is watching a home movie. The music throughout the movie is also perfectly utilized. Charlie and his companions during the movie. From David Bowie to Dexys Midnight Runners, it seems as though the teens were born into the wrong era, which further gives the movie a sort of nostalgic feel.
I would definitely recommend this film to anyone who wants a good laugh, or even a good cry. I get both every time I watch the film. Perks of Being a Wallflower is not only a great movie, but it brings awareness to the very serious issue that is mental health. It is real, and it affects even high school kids.