“The Perks of Being a Wallflower”

By Megan Bormann

The fact that I’m sobbing into my pillow at two in the morning while watching this should already say something. In 2012, Logan Lerman stole our hearts with help from Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, and Paul Rudd. Director Stephen Chbosky’s film based on his 1999 novel features the quiet, often invisible Charlie as he navigates his freshman year of high school. The famous quote from Rudd’s Mr. Anderson, “We accept the love we think we deserve,” made us shed more tears.

The movie follows Charlie throughout the year, addressing dark themes such as teen suicide, sexual assault, drug and alcohol addiction, and abuse. However, Chbosky makes sure to mix light, wholesome moments and happiness into the story. This combination provides a timeless and relatable essence to Charlie’s journey of self-discovery. 

One thing that we have to talk about is the age difference between Charlie and his friends, Sam and Patrick. It isn’t realistic that seniors in high school would be this open and welcoming to a freshman or that a romantic relationship between a senior and freshman wouldn’t be frowned upon. At times, it was uncomfortable to watch, because in high school a three-year age gap is significant. 

Besides that, the film captures the heart of Charlie, wanting to be loved and feel like he isn’t alone in this world full of pain and heartbreak. Just by watching, I too felt infinite.