Wonder Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A kid who looks different goes to school and everyone learns a valuable lesson about not being a jerk.

🍿 Wonder: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introducing Auggie Pullman

August ‘Auggie’ Pullman is a bright and imaginative 10-year-old boy living in New York City. Born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, he has undergone numerous surgeries to improve his facial structure and overall health. Auggie has been homeschooled by his mother, Isabel, but as he approaches middle school, his parents decide it’s time for him to attend Beecher Prep, a private school, to broaden his horizons and social interactions.

Navigating Beecher Prep

Auggie’s entry into Beecher Prep is met with mixed reactions. While some students, like Jack Will and Summer, are willing to befriend him, others, such as Julian, struggle with Auggie’s appearance and resort to bullying. Auggie faces stares, whispers, and outright cruelty, testing his resilience and his family’s support system. He struggles to find his place but leans on his wit, intelligence, and love for science to navigate the challenging social landscape.

Friendship, Betrayal, and Redemption

During Halloween, Auggie overhears his friend Jack saying hurtful things about him to fit in with the popular crowd, leading to a significant rift in their friendship. Hurt and disillusioned, Auggie grapples with feelings of betrayal and isolation. Jack eventually realizes the error of his ways and seeks forgiveness, leading to a reconciliation that strengthens their bond. The events highlight the complexities of friendship and the importance of empathy and understanding.

Via’s Story

Auggie’s sister, Via, also copes with challenges. She’s always been supportive of Auggie, but sometimes feels overshadowed by the attention he needs. She navigates her own high school experiences, friendship dynamics, and a budding romance, all while balancing her role as Auggie’s protector and confidante. She struggles with feeling as if she always plays second fiddle to her brother’s needs.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Auggie Pullman (Jacob Tremblay): A young boy with facial differences who bravely enters mainstream school for the first time, facing both challenges and triumphs.
• Isabel Pullman (Julia Roberts): Auggie’s supportive and loving mother, who initially home-schools him but later encourages his enrollment in school.
• Nate Pullman (Owen Wilson): Auggie’s warm-hearted and humorous father who supports his son and wife through the challenges of integrating into school.
• Via (Izabela Vidovic): Auggie’s older sister who often feels overshadowed but provides unwavering support and love to her brother.
• Jack Will (Noah Jupe): Auggie’s first real friend at school, who initially befriends him out of obligation but becomes a true and loyal companion.
• Julian (Bryce Gheisar): A bully who torments Auggie due to his appearance, showcasing the challenges Auggie faces in fitting in.
• Mr. Tushman (Mandy Patinkin): The kind and supportive principal of Beecher Prep who champions Auggie and promotes acceptance among the students.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Mr. Browne: “When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.” – Mr. Browne’s precept emphasizes the importance of compassion over correctness, becoming a central theme of the movie.
• Via: “You can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.” – Via reassures Auggie, highlighting the beauty of his uniqueness and the importance of embracing individuality.
• Auggie: “I think the only way I’m going to convince people that I’m normal is by showing them how normal I am.” – Auggie expresses his determination to overcome prejudice and prove his worth, focusing on his inner qualities rather than his appearance.
• Mr. Tushman: “Greatness lies not in being strong, but in using strength rightly… He’s chosen a harder path, and if that’s not a great man, then I don’t know what is.” – Mr. Tushman praises Auggie’s resilience and courage, defining greatness through perseverance and character, not physical prowess.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $20,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $132,422,809
• Worldwide Gross: $315,025,930

💥 Wonder Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved Wonder! It’s one of those movies that just makes you feel good. Jacob Tremblay was incredible as Auggie, and I found myself tearing up during so many scenes. Especially when he gets his award at the end, I was so happy for him! Definitely a movie I’ll watch again and again when I need a pick-me-up.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Families seeking heartwarming stories”
  • “Fans of coming-of-age dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in themes of kindness and acceptance”
  • “Individuals who enjoy character-driven narratives”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Bullying and social exclusion”
  • “Some scenes depicting facial differences may be upsetting to sensitive viewers”
  • “Brief mild language”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Wonder transcends its potentially saccharine premise with genuine warmth and humor. Tremblay delivers a nuanced performance, supported by a strong ensemble cast. A truly heartwarming film experience.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “A surprisingly affecting family film that tackles the complexities of acceptance and empathy. Wonder is a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, elevated by strong performances from Tremblay, Roberts, and Wilson.
• RogerEbert.com: “Wonder navigates its sensitive subject matter with grace and heart. While predictable at times, the film’s genuine emotional core and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch for families.

Audience Reactions

Jacob Tremblay’s performance as Auggie was phenomenal and truly moving.: Viewers consistently praise the movie’s heartwarming story and positive message about kindness and acceptance.

The film beautifully portrays the struggles and triumphs of a child with facial differences.: Many audience members found the movie emotionally resonant and appreciated its focus on empathy and understanding.

Overall Consensus: Wonder is a heartwarming and inspiring family film with strong performances and a positive message that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “R.J. Palacio was inspired to write the book after witnessing her son’s insensitive reaction to a child with Treacher Collins Syndrome, prompting her to reflect on kindness and acceptance.”
• “The makeup and prosthetics used to transform Jacob Tremblay into Auggie took a significant amount of time each day, requiring careful application to create a realistic and sympathetic portrayal.”
• “The film utilizes a chapter-based narrative, shifting perspectives to explore how Auggie’s experiences impact his family and friends, providing a broader understanding of the themes of empathy and compassion.”

🖥️ How to Watch Wonder?

Wonder is widely available for streaming and purchase. You can find it on platforms such as Paramount+, and for rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, and Google Play Movies. Check your local cable provider for on-demand options as well.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Wonder, you might like these similar films:

• Mask (1985): Both films center on a teenager with a craniofacial difference navigating social acceptance and personal growth.
• The Elephant Man (1980): Explores the themes of appearance versus inner character, focusing on a man with severe deformities facing societal prejudice.
• Good Boys (2019): Like Wonder, also explores the challenges and misadventures of young kids, with emphasis on friendship and discovering new experiences.
• Akeelah and the Bee (2006): Focuses on a young, determined protagonist overcoming obstacles to achieve her goals, highlighting themes of perseverance and community support.

🛒 Wonder Related Products

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio: The original New York Times Bestseller novel that inspired the movie. Explore the full story and characters in greater depth, and dive into the journey that touched millions.
• Wonder Movie Poster: A high-quality print featuring the official movie poster art. Perfect for decorating a bedroom, classroom, or home theater.
• Wonder #ChooseKind T-Shirt: A comfortable and stylish T-shirt featuring the movie’s tagline, “#ChooseKind.” Available in various sizes and colors.
• Minecraft Starter Collection: The full base game. Explore randomly generated worlds and build amazing things from the simplest of homes to the grandest of castles. Play in Creative Mode with unlimited resources or mine deep into the world in Survival Mode, crafting weapons and armor to fend off dangerous mobs.

🎧 Soundtrack

Wonder features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “The Stars and the Moon” – performed by Marcelo Zarvos
• “Brand New” – performed by Ben Rector
• “Count on Me” – performed by Bruno Mars

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Wonder Behind the Scenes – Transformation

Curious how actor Jacob Tremblay became Auggie? Dive behind the scenes and witness the transformation of a lifetime, showcasing the magic of makeup and the actor’s incredible talent.

Wonder Behind the Scenes – The Makeup

Prepare to be amazed! This video uncovers the secrets behind the remarkable transformation of Auggie. Watch as makeup artists work their magic, turning Jacob Tremblay into Auggie and revealing the intricate details that brought this unforgettable character to life.

✨ Rate