Stories about high schoolers finding themselves through writing/music/poetry/love/life/dancing/drinking/smoking/friendship/raising their arms in triumph as a choice tune plays in the background are quite the dime a dozen now-a-days. It's gotten to the point where the moments that once seemed poignant and moving now come across as forced and cliched. It's hard not to roll one's eyes every time some teen tries to explain how that certain girl is the key to unlocking the meaning to his existence or how he wants to be something special, but feels dead inside. These stories and characters have become so stock and Hollywood-ized that it's difficult to remember just how effective they can be when they are treated with thought and care. So, thank the maker for The Perks of Being a Wallflower, a film which reminds one of the power of the coming-of-age genre when it's done right.
Perks follows the high school trials and tribulations of Charlie (Logan Lerman), an intelligent, socially awkward freshman with the dream of being a writer. (All protagonists want to be writers in these kinds of stories) His life takes a turn for the better when he meets the flamboyant, life-embracing Patrick (Ezra Miller) and his sweet, almost unbearably gorgeous stepsister Sam. (Emma Watson) The film follows their exploits, their loves, their joys, and their pains with an earnestness that is rather refreshing. Sure, there are many stock moments that every coming-of-age story feels necessary to cram within its running time in addition to some rather contrived plot points, (There's a gift giving scene about halfway through the movie that feels particularly phony) and a particularly monumental twist regarding one character's past near the film's end feels tacked on rather than a natural progression of the story. Still, when the talent both in front of and behind the camera is as passionate as what's on display here, it's hard to let such minor thoughts ruin such an affecting picture.
And speaking of which, allow me a moment to talk about the brilliant, brilliant cast. Logan Lerman, who may be best known for his role as the title character in the Percy Jackson film, is wonderful. One can't help but adore his take on Charlie and every moment of his journey feels authentic. Emma Watson holds her own as well, proving that she has an acting career after Harry Potter, though one could hardly have doubted that much considering how wonderful she was in those movies. She perfectly encapsulates the transcendent girl that confounds and enraptures all young boys seeking out the one. Of course, much praise has been thrown at Ezra Miller who is fantastic as Patrick. I haven't seen him in his breakout role We Need to Talk About Kevin, but I'm very excited to give it a looksee. The supporting cast is also strong, but it's these three principals who carry the movie and they do so with the greatest of gusto. Their incredible performances help the film transcend its genre to become something wholly unique and rather special.
Of course, credit must also be paid to Stephen Chbosky, the writer of the source material the movie is based on as well as the writer/director of the film itself. From the talent on display here, I would never have guessed that this was Mr. Chbosky's big-screen debut. He directs with confidence and expertly adapts his material to best fit its cinematic iteration. His music choices are also spot on and lend every moment with the emotional kick they need - His use of Dexy's Midnight Runners 'Come on Eileen' during the Homecoming Dance scene was particularly inspired and hilarious. I sincerely hope he continues to make films such as this because if Perks proves anything at all, it's that he has a very promising career on the horizon.
I went into Perks feeling hopeful, but skeptical. Lately, it's been hard for me to truly enjoy the 'finding oneself and true love' genre because it seems every movie has to force its phony emotions down my throat. Perks occasionally slides into that territory, but the overall product is moving, genuine, and immensely heartfelt. It's certainly one of the finest films of 2012 and I wouldn't be surprised in the least if in a future age it becomes mentioned in the same breath as other teen classics such as The Breakfast Club.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower may not be perfect, but in this moment I swear it feels infinite.
FINAL RATING: 4/5
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