The Perks of Being a Wallflower - A Winning Film

This captivating and endearing film embodies Vreeland's motto:  embrace your uniqueness.  It is based on the novel by Chbosky, who is also the film's director.  This is not your typical coming-of-age story. The  main character, Charlie (Lerman) is very apprehensive about starting high school.  Compounding his dread, he is recovering from a recent mental breakdown.  He holds out hope of finding a friend or at the very least, not to call attention on himself.  I felt his pain as he eats lunch alone in the cafeteria.  In shopclass Charlie first meets, Patrick (Ezra Miller) a senior. Patrick is outlandishly, unapologetically gay.  Patrick befriends Charlie & then introduces him to his beloved step-sister, Sam (Emma Watson,)  The acting by all 3 main characters is exceptional. Despite being a freshman, Sam & Patrick take Charlie under their wing and introduce him to their eccentric circle who welcome him into "the island of misfit toys."  This movie perfectly captures the joys found in friendships and of being true to yourself.  There is much more to this story than the exuberance & fun of youth.  Many of life's harsh experiences are honestly & painfully portrayed.  At the end of his freshman year, as his friends all head off in their own directions, Charlie tells himself, "We can't choose where we came from, but we can choose where we go from here."  I highly recommend you choose going to see this wonderful film.