Anyone who has been following my movie ramblings knows that I usually read the book that a movie is based on. “Wonder” was no exception, so I knew exactly what to expect from the plot of this movie. AND I STILL CRIED!! This is a very thoughtful and gentle movie told with compassion and empathy. For those of you who aren’t familiar, this is the story of Auggie Pullman, born with terrible facial deformities that have necessitated over 20 operations. Auggie, doesn’t like to go out without his astronaut helmet on to cover his face, which has caused small children to cry and adults to turn away. Luckily his mother, played with moving compassion by Julia Roberts, has been able to home school him. However, it is time for Auggie to find his way in the world and his parents decide he is ready to try a small private school where he will enter fifth grade as a middle schooler. As you can imagine, many children are not kind to Auggie, but this movie ends up being a Valentine to all who have every been victimized by a bully. Auggie is played with tremendous pathos and humor by Jacob Tremblay who manages to seem very human even under tons of prosthetics and make up. Owen Wilson is just right as his supportive dad and Izabela Vidovic is great as the neglected sister who never gives up on her little brother. I give the film makers kudos for making this movie feel real and not making it too overly sappy. The simple message of this story, “Be Kind” will resonant with many long after the credits have stopped rolling.
Money Monster
Money Monster has a very interesting premise that has to do with the stock market. Many people, including yours truly, do not understand where the money goes when you buy a stock. I still don’t have a clue, but this movie entertained me while trying to explain it. George Clooney plays Lee Gates, a sleazy host of a program where stock market investment advice is given. Jack O’Connell is excellent as the young man who loses his life savings on a stock tip that Lee provides. Julia Roberts plays the program director. All three actors are absolutely believable in their partss. This move is exciting and very well-paced. Even though you know exactly what ia going to happen, there is enough suspense to keep you clutching your partner’s arm. I do not usually buy into conspiracy theories, but I am convinced that this kind of money hank-panky probably happens quite often. Think of Money Monster as a good break from the high action super hero movies that seem to abound this time of year. Oh, and Highlander fans will be delighted with Caitriona Balfe’s supporting role as a coorporate stooge with a conscience.