Review by J1 Reporter Syra Qureshi

On Nov. 28, I watched “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” an emotional coming-of-age film directed by Stephen Chbosky, that explores love, complexity and adolescence. This film captures the seriousness of balancing friendship with trauma, as Charlie, played by Logan Lerman, is on a path to self discovery. With the help of his new friends, Charlie finds himself.

As Charlie starts high school, he struggles to find his place while dealing with his troubled past. Then he meets Sam, a warm-hearted senior played by Emma Watson, and Patrick, a vibrant senior played by Ezra Miller, who show him a new light.

 The step-siblings introduce Charlie to music, adventures and happiness, providing him a happy place. Along with other bonds that Charlie creates, his new friendships give him a reason to keep going.

However, Charlie’s path to happiness isn’t easy, and his internal struggles interfere with his friendships. His heartbreaking story showcases pain and emotion that leaves the viewer in awe.

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is a film that captures the difficult, but also beautiful parts of self discovery. I enjoyed the soundtrack of this film that captures teenage adrenaline. I recommend this movie to anyone who has felt like an outsider in life. It has a heartfelt message.