Movie of the Week: “Wonder,” A Heartfelt Drama Review

Introduction

“Wonder” is a heartfelt drama film based on R.J. Palacio’s 2012 novel of the same name. Directed by Stephen Chbosky, the movie stars Jacob Tremblay as Auggie Pullman, a young boy with Treacher Collins syndrome who faces the challenges of attending a mainstream school for the first time. The film also features Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson as his supportive parents.

Release Date

“Wonder” was released in theaters on November 17, 2017.

Where to Watch

“Wonder” is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and for purchase or rent on services such as iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube.

Lessons for Parents

1. Unconditional Love and Support: The Pullman family’s unwavering support for Auggie underscores the importance of parental love and acceptance.
2. Encouraging Resilience: The film shows how parents can help their children build resilience by encouraging them to face and overcome challenges.
3. Navigating Bullying: “Wonder” provides a framework for parents to discuss bullying with their children and the importance of standing up for oneself and others.

Lessons for Communities

1. Fostering Inclusivity: The school community’s journey towards accepting Auggie highlights the significance of inclusivity and creating a supportive environment for all.
2. Promoting Kindness: The film advocates for kindness, showing how small acts of kindness can significantly impact someone’s life.
3. Building Empathy: “Wonder” encourages communities to develop empathy by understanding and valuing each individual’s unique experiences.

Lessons for Society

1. Awareness and Acceptance of Differences: The movie raises awareness about facial differences and promotes societal acceptance and understanding.
2. Combating Prejudice: It challenges societal prejudices and emphasizes the need for compassion and open-mindedness.
3. Role of Education: The film underscores the role of educational institutions in teaching students about diversity, empathy, and kindness.

Conclusion

“Wonder” is a poignant film that delivers powerful messages about kindness, acceptance, and the importance of family and community support. It offers valuable lessons for parents, communities, and society at large, encouraging viewers to look beyond appearances and appreciate the intrinsic value of every individual. The film’s heartwarming narrative and strong performances make it a must-watch for families seeking meaningful and uplifting entertainment.