"Perks" is Hughesian gold

Rating: 9/10 (18 October 2012)

Stephen Chbosky directs the film version of the novel that he wrote, and that personal touch is felt deeply through every frame of "The Perks of Being a Wallflower". The heart of this fantastic coming-of-age film is its performances – raw, true, and overflowing with youthful energy. Logan Lerman plays the shy freshman with a past, who doesn't quite know where he should try to fit in at his new school. Enter Ezra Miller and Emma Watson, seniors at the school with a rebellious streak and hearts of gold big enough to let the new kid into their world. Through their adventures they form bonds that may or may not last forever (you'll have to watch to find out), and memories that will undoubtedly guide them into greatness for the rest of their lives. The movie feels so John Hughes-y, bursting with style and substance, traits that most "teen" flicks of today lack desperately. So "Superbad" was deeper than most because it dealt withthe fear of loneliness, the unknown? "Perks" hits much harder with themes of sexuality, intense depression, molestation, and suicide. But you'll laugh too, it's not all a sob story. It's a true-life tale about growing up and fitting in, and allowing others to help you when you're at your worst. "Perks" is coming-of-age at its best.
-Thomas Bond