Coming-of-age movies can be emotionally challenging, especially when its young protagonists are confronted with significant obstacles. Such is the case with “Wonder,” the 2017 family drama currently trending at #3 on Netflix in the United States.
This isn’t your typical tale about growing up. It follows the life of August Pullman, a 10-year-old boy born with a rare medical facial deformity called mandibulofacial dysostosis. Apart from undergoing numerous surgeries to improve his ability to see, hear, smell, and speak, August faces many challenges tied with his social development.
Based on the 2012 novel by R. J. Palacio, the film adaptation was helmed by Stephen Chbosky, known for directing “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” both adapted from a musical and a book, respectively.
‘Wonder’ ranks Top 3 on Netflix US
Wonder is one of those films that portrays the struggles of those who suffer in silence. As a result, it has garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences alike, earning its place as the third most-watched movie on Netflix.
Remarkably, it’s on the verge of surpassing “Under Paris” to claim the second spot on the chart, despite the latter’s current popularity on the platform. Moreover, it’s generating enough viewership to rival “Hit Man,” the blockbuster expected to be one of the major hits of 2024.
The story revolves around the aforementioned August, who must transition from homeschooling to attending a private middle school, Beecher Prep, to help him face the world and grow. Throughout his journey, he experiences moments of hardship, laughter, but above all, profound personal growth.
The movie boasts an impressive cast, with Jacob Tremblay portraying August, alongside Owen Wilson, Julia Roberts, and Izabela Vidovic as his parents and sister, and Noah Jupe as Jack Will, his first friend.
Notably, it received an Oscar nomination for makeup and hairstyling, attributed to the intricate prosthetic makeup worn by Jacob Tremblay. Designed and created by Arjen Tuiten, the makeup application process took an hour and a half and included a skull cap with prosthetic ears, a facial prosthetic covering Jacob’s face, and a wig.