Opened: September 21, 2012

Directed by: Stephen Chbosky

Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, Mae Whitman, Paul Rudd, Nina Dobrev, Johnny Simmons, Erin Wilhelmi, Adam Hagenbuch, Kate Walsh, Dylan McDermott, Melanie Lynskey, Zane Holtz, Reece Thompson, Nicholas Braun, Landon Pigg, Tom Savini, Julia Garner & Joan Cusack

Since the book’s author Stephen Chbosky takes the helm as screenwriter and director, the film version of his classic young adult novel is handled with care and stays true to its source.

Charlie (Logan Lerman) is entering his first year of high school after suffering a breakdown the year before. He finds friendship in senior stepsiblings Patrick (Ezra Miller) and Sam (Emma Watson) and tries to readjust to life while handling depression.

Except for some slips of Watson’s British accent, the main three truly embody their characters. Lerman was tragically overlooked by critics for award purposes. He makes Charlie sympathetic and beautifully handles his breakdown.

The film is full of fantastic music and covers LGBTQIA+ characters, mental illness and gender roles. It’s very representative and almost anyone can find a piece of themselves.

Final say: The perks are endless. ★★★★★