By definition, a wallflower is meek and mild, lingering out of view rather than participating in activities or garnering attention.
Though that classification may describe the quiet, contemplative lead character of writer/director Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower (an adaptation of his own 1999 novel) the film itself is a bold coming of age drama, set amidst a first foray into the feeding frenzy of high school during the early 1990s.
Thematically, the film traverses the well-trodden path of following an outcast as they gain acceptance. Yet, in its unlikely collection of self-described teenage misfits and the one lonely youngster who enters their embrace, it offers an enjoyably refreshing take on the expected array of adolescent problems.
Charlie (Logan Lerman, The Three Musketeers) takes the titular position; an awkward freshman embarking upon secondary schooling without any friends in tow. A wannabe writer who knows better than to aspire beyond his limited social standing, Charlie’s perspective changes when he is adopted by senior step-siblings Patrick (Ezra Miller, We Need to Talk About Kevin) and Sam (Emma Watson, My Week with Marilyn). The free-spirited Patrick enthusiastically encourages Charlie’s individuality, while the troubled but thoughtful Sam nurtures his sensitive side, as well as becoming the first love of his life.
Though conventional teenage angst tropes infiltrate Chbosky’s narrative – with shadows of The Breakfast Club and Dead Poets Society evident – The Perks of Being a Wallflower eschews formula for a more thematic approach. From the heartfelt narration of its protagonist to his endearing experiences with sex, drugs and other rites of passage, Charlie’s journey is presented as more than just an exercise in escape and identity-building through hedonism. Similarly, the complex characterisations that inform the drama, complete with challenging yet authentic backstories, elevate the film beyond cursory and superficial renderings of growing up.
Vulnerable, vivid performances from the three leads are complemented by competent supports (particularly Wanderlust’s Paul Rudd as a sympathetic school teacher). Although Miller steals every scene he is in, Watson easily sheds her Harry Potter persona, and Lerman portrays his understated role well. A few overly clichéd lines of dialogue and leaps in logic may threaten the effectiveness of their efforts, however the film’s affection for their problems and plights always triumphs. Stylishly helmed, seething with nostalgia and boasting a searing soundtrack, The Perks of Being a Wallflower does its best to soar rather than fade into the background.
Rating: 3 ½ stars out of 5
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Director: Stephen Chbosky
USA, 2012, 102 min
In cinemas November 29
Distributor: Roadshow
Rated M
Actors:
Director:
Format:
Country:
Release:
