A child who looks different anxiously prepares for the fifth grade, having been homeschooled up to this point by his mom (Julia Roberts), having made little contact with the outside world (Jacob Tremblay as Auggie), now ready to thoughtfully engage.
His mother and father (Owen Wilson) are more nervous than he is, as he courageously departs, sincerely worried about their son, whom they've diligently help to prepare.
His sister (Izabela Vidovic as Via) provides prudent counsel and lays down the skeletal score, a brief barebones adolescent treatise, on inherent enervating distress.
But he's a gamer, he doesn't back down, although he's faced with acerbic prejudice, he hangs in there and academically excels, making some chill real friends along the way.
Wonder isn't just focused on him though, the trials of several young people are explored, their struggles compassionately and intricately blended, as they deal with scholastic realities.
The result's a well-rounded take offering diverse perspectives on the challenges youth face, while trying to carve out an identity, and freely fit in at school.
Parents too, the shocks of child rearing, the difficulties of trying to let go, to be there whenever and wherever, without smothering the affable flow.
It's great to see such honest loving parents who abound with enriching guidance, who don't shy away from the hardboiled vortex, but don't dwell or fixate on it either.
The troubles are there, they haven't been whitewashed, but Wonder still presents lighthearted community, or instances where peeps don't have to defend themselves, since they've found rewarding playful friendship.
Difference is a wonderful thing and adds so much spice to cultural life. Just think of a hot pot of chilli with the more ingredients the merrier.
Taking the time to consider what people are going through instead of bluntly embracing base instinct, can lead to enlivening gatherings overflowing with laidback novelty (post-COVID).
There's so much of an emphasis on power and control these days that it's easy to forget some people just want to talk, without enacting the "holier-than-thou", or resorting to blunt fatalism.
Just because someone has more money it doesn't mean that they're a jerk, just because someone's speech isn't prim and polished it doesn't mean they have nothing to say.
You may find people who comprehend subjects that don't lead to the acquisition of wealth, radiate creative synergies regenerating soulful stealth.
It seems like it'd be easier if youthful discourse permeated the working world, but Wonder demonstrates how difficult it is for youngsters themselves to generate chillaxed disclosure.
It's an excellent film promoting understanding that's neither too harsh nor sentimental.
Rich with compelling observation.
Cheeky poignant and studious kindness.
