The Wonder

Florence Pugh is English nurse "Mrs. Wright" who travels to Ireland to nurse a young girl who hasn't eaten in quite a while. Well at least that is what she thinks. Upon arrival, she discovers from the board that she and a nun (Josie Walker) are not to nurse at all, but to sit and watch what happens to this young girl "Anna" (Kíla Lord Cassidy). Is this all a fraud or is it divine intervention that is enabling this young woman to survive un-nourished but for the odd sip of water. Enter Tom Burke's rather sceptical journalist "Will", a local who moved to London but who still has more than his fair share of demons. Soon he and the nurse begin to bond, despite their initial difference of opinions about the whole thing and she knuckles down to d...

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"The Wonder takes time to transform its mysterious premise into a truly captivating narrative, but the displays of Florence Pugh and especially Kíla Lord Cassidy - one of the most impressive performances to come from a 13-year-old - bear the struggles in the least relevant moments.

As a character study, the film approaches the protagonists' distinct grieving processes in a gradually more profound manner, with some surprises along the way. Filmmaker Sebastián Lelio makes the most of the atmospheric cinematography (Ari Wegner) and the contemplative score (Matthew Herbert) to elevate the slow pacing, but not always successfully.

For fans of period pieces, see it."

Rating: B-

The Wonder is a slow burn that fails to leave a lasting impression that most films of its type achieve.

At the forefront is the battle between science vs religion. Many citizens in the town are extremely religious and desperately want this child to be a sign from God and a gift to the town. This idea works well, and the denial of facts is quite reminiscent of today's society. But unfortunately, this film treats itself as some grand masterpiece when that isn't entirely true. It is filled with small plot holes and details that simply do not makes sense. I was bought in to a point, but the ending really falls of the rails for me and left me somewhat unsatisfied.

The performances are great, and really carry this movie. Florence Pugh is sp...