The Perks of Movies

Everyone loves movies. They come with the perks of: popcorn, cozy blankets, and relaxation. But, the best perk is the movie itself. For this blog, I'll be reviewing the most heartbreaking, yet touching film "The Perks of Being a Wallflower".

Summary:

After being hospitalized, fifteen year old Charlie Kelmeckis is not only coping with the suicide of his best friend, but the anxiety of approaching his first day of high school alone, the death of his aunt Helen, and the fear of being stuck in his head the entire 4 years of high school. To lessen his tension, Charlie begins writing letters to a stranger who he heard was nice, but has never met.

At school, Charlie meets his English teacher, Bill, who gives him the best advice, to make one friend on the first day. With this in mind, he steps out of his comfort zone on a Friday night football game, and approaches two senors who will change his live, Patrick and Sam.

During the course of his freshman year, Charlie has his first kiss, deals with bullies, experiments with drugs and drinking, and makes friends who invite him in as a "wallflower".  His life turns around with the help of Sam and Patrick, mix tapes full of iconic songs, classic books from Bill, and writing.

Unfortunately as the school year comes to an end, a secret that has repressed Charlie since a young age comes back into his head as he realizes really what has happened in his life. Remembering this secret causes Charlie to have a severe mental breakdown, concluding in him being hospitalized once again.

The closing letter concludes with feelings of hope: getting released from the hospital, forgiving his aunt Helen, finding new friends his sophomore year, and trying not to be a wallflower. Charlie intends to get out of his head and into the real world, participating in his life instead of watching it fly by.

Recommendation:

If you're looking for a movie to leave you in tears but paint the most beautiful smile across your face, I highly recommend this movie. It'll warm your heart but break it at the same time. I've learned countless lessons from this film, and some important life advice. Not only is the movie phenomenal, but the book is as well.

9/10 overall.