The Perks of Being a Wallflower

          Today I watched The Perks of Being a Wallflower for the first time... and the second. The second time I enabled the director commentary. The movie is directed by Stephen Chbosky, the same guy who wrote the novel and adapted the screenplay. This gave it the most authentic journey possible, and I am grateful for that. Generally speaking, the story is about a quiet high school freshman who is taken under the wings of two energetic seniors. It is the story of growing up; it is the story of firsts; it is the story of acceptance; it is the story of love; it is the story of overcoming one's past; it is the story of dealing with one's problems; it is the story of creating the possibility of a better future. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is perfect. Pure and simple, it reminds us all that life does get better, that compassionate people are out there waiting to save us from the hell we may be living.

          The fact that the story is perfect has been established: now for the filmmaking part. Chbosky went to film school, and his passion for film shines in the subliminal details he and his team tirelessly put together. From the 12:24 on the analog clock foreshadowing Charlie's (the freshman wallflower) birthday to his making of the snow angel while thinking about the deceased, profound symbolism was available throughout the feature. The director commentary was totally worth hearing, and I even recommend watching it with Chbosky multiple times. Even with his voiceover I still cried at all the emotional parts. Not a dry spot was left on my face.

          Now for the acting. Breathtaking. Emma Watson was the standout, with her British accent subsided for a flawless American one, the quick little looks she naturally reacts to the other characters with, and her genuine transformation that took place in front of the camera. Ezra Miller was born to play his character, adding a quirky, outspoken personality to the movie. Logan Lerman, as Charlie, was unbelievably believable as the bookworm wallflower. His mannerisms were completely Charlie's, and his performance made me feel infinitely sympathetic with Charlie. All the supporting characters were perfectly casted as well; notably Dylan McDermott as Charlie's dad and Paul Rudd as Charlie's teacher, who Lerman's character adores.

          This is a must-see for all Americans out there. It really defines our high school experience while leaving a shade of gray for you to fill your story in. Miserable memories will come back, but in the end, it leaves you too feeling infinite.