The Wonder and Aftersun – Movie Reviews

The Wonder, directed by Sebastián Lelio, is Netflix psychological period drama with Florence Pugh in the lead role alongside Tom Burke, Niamh Algar, Elaine Cassidy, and others in supporting roles. Based on the 2016 novel of the same name by Emma Donoghue, the movie depicts the life of a little girl from the Irish Midlands in 1862 who abruptly stops eating but still manages to stay healthy.

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Florence Pugh is in everything these days, from Marvel’s Black Widow to Little Women and Don’t Worry Darling, she always chooses such different projects, and her performances were flawless in everything. Coming to The Wonder, I actually liked it cause there’s this aura of uneasiness and anxiety from the beginning, and you can very much feel it in your bones. Furthermore, the storyline, written for the screen by Emma Donoghue, Sebastián Lelio, and Alice Birch, was satisfactory, and the twist was soo heartbreaking and unexpected.

I pride myself on being able to foresee how most movies end, but I was clueless when it comes to this film. The Wonder kicked off a bit slow, but it managed to garner tremendous momentum. The entire setup was really nice, and it sucks you in to the point that you cannot look away. Kíla Lord Cassidy, who plays Anna O’Donnell in the movie, was impressive and sold her character perfectly, and I absolutely loved it. Additionally, the climax was heartwarming, and I adored it even though I am super morbid and I love sad and disturbing endings. So, if you’re in the mood for an unsettling movie with a great ending, you should definitely check this out!

‘The Wonder’ Rating – 4/5

Review by Zoha Junaid (@zohasreviews)

There are quite a few words that I can use to describe Aftersun; honest, authentic, mesmerizing, emotional, and transcendent are one of the many few that even remotely do this film justice in what it accomplishes. Charlotte Wells makes an astounding directorial debut with Aftersun, a careful examination of the past relationship between a father and his 11-year-old daughter during their unforgettable vacation.

Wells invites the audience to reflect and empathize with the two protagonists in a conscientious construct of their trip. Her placement and omission of particular details create a sophisticated puzzle for the audience to try and piece together. The story is told as a retrospective through the lens of Sophie as she reminisces over her past with her father to stimulate a greater connection between the two. Ultimately, it draws us towards these two magnetic characters to further explore their behavior.

As a character study, Wells succeeds at every turn by ensuring the most organic and steadily paced development of this father and daughter. Paul Mescal as Callum is brilliant, conveying a sense of likeability and passion towards his daughter, while also subtly hinting at an underlying depression that haunts his character. Frankie Corio as Sophie gives one of the best performances I have seen in quite some time from a younger actor. Both leads share a superlative chemistry that amplified my overall emotional investment.

Wells’ direction is immaculate to create an air of authenticity. With gorgeous cinematography, distinct editing practices, and immersive sound design, it’s ever so easy to become absorbed into the world of Aftersun. Her creative decisions become more apparent near the conclusion of the film. I had become emotionally floored, as this movie landed a poignant uppercut in its last moments. Charlotte Wells has instantly proven to be a modern auteur in the industry with Aftersun. As a methodical character study, it excels in developing empathetic characters in a naturalistic backdrop. It’s one of the best A24 films I’ve seen and easily one of the best films of the year.

‘Aftersun’ Rating – 4.5/5

Review by Zach Kraus (@pretentiousfilmcritic)