Cast
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Logan Lerman
as Charlie
Emma Watson
as Sam
Ezra Miller
as Patrick
Mae Whitman
as Mary Elizabeth
Kate Walsh
as Mother
Dylan McDermott
as Father
Melanie Lynskey
as Aunt Helen
Nina Dobrev
as Candace
Johnny Simmons
as Brad
Joan Cusack
as Dr. Burton
Paul Rudd
as Mr. Anderson
Nicholas Braun
as Ponytail Derek
Reece Thompson
as Craig
Patrick de Ledebur
as Senior Bully
Brian Balzerini
as Linebacker
Crew
Director
- Stephen Chbosky
Producer
- John Malkovich
- Russell Smith
- Lianne Halfon
Reviews
Andres Gomez
Really complex and sweet movie with a great story, script and performances from Lerman, Watson and Miller.
Also, great directing and cut. A really good movie for a rainy day.
Feb 29, 2016
Sidney Prescott
This movie was godly. No other like it. Truly a spiritual experience.
Dec 6, 2021
rosewaters
This movie & book honest to god changed my life. I also feel that they supplement each other well. The movie includes details not included in the book and vice versa. Read the book and then watch the movie, its a spiritual experience.
Feb 26, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Perks of Being a Wallflower examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Stephen Chbosky brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Perks of Being a Wallflower took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $13.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 36 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Perks of Being a Wallflower shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Swan Song, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Perks of Being a Wallflower offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Baian the Assassin and Tomorrow's Dining Table explore similar territory, The Perks of Being a Wallflower stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 20, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 43m
- Budget: $13,000,000
- Revenue: $33,384,127
Where to Watch
