Boomstick Comics

4K UHD Review: ‘Wonder’!


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THE FILM



Back in 2012, author R.J. Palacio released her novel 'Wonder', which caught on worldwide quickly and became one of the most heartfelt and dare I say it "wonderful" stories of recent memory. It was only a matter of time before it was optioned into a movie. Luckily Lionsgate picked it up where author/director Stephen Chbosky (Perks of Being a Wallflower) signed on to take on the task in adapting this fantastic story for the big screen. 'Wonder' follows a young boy named Auggie (Jacob Tremblay) who was born with Treacher Collins syndrome, which is a genetic disorder that causes facial disfiguration at birth, which can cause problems with hearing, eyesight, and breathing.



Other than that, the people affected with this syndrome are normal. Auggie has had a few dozen surgeries before he enters middle school to get him looking the way he does in the film, which subsequently is his first time attending a public school, and not home school with his mother Isabel (Julia Roberts). The book as well as the film tells the story from the eyes of several different kids, including Auggie, his sister, and new friends he makes. By telling the story this way, we get to see not just how the kids react, but what may cause their reactions to Auggie and the decisions they make. It's truly remarkable.

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Luckily, the whole story flow and characters are more or less so genuine and likable, much like they way 'Gilmore Girls' was. As Auggie goes thru his first year at school as a 6th grader, this coming-of-age drama hits a ton of highlights of growing up that brings both the high points and low points, which Chbosky has done well in before with 'Perks of Being a Wallflower'. This is one of those films where you want to spend not just an hour or two with the characters, but a lifetime with them, with a very simple message at its core. The film is quite funny and pulls the heartstrings often, but never in a cheesy way, but in a very realistic way, which brings evoke some deep emotions.

The comedic elements are all perfectly delivered and the 'Star Wars' references are top notch (I'm not kidding). Everyone turns in a great performance, but the young Jacob Tremblay truly shines in this deeply felt role for him. At such a young age, this kid can perform with the best of them, no matter what age. 'Wonder' is a family-friendly gem that will never grow old and should be watched forever. One of my new favorites for sure.
 
THE VIDEO



The Video: Lionsgate brings 'Wonder' to the front of the class with 4K UHD with an option of HDR10 encoding as well as Dolby Vision, which is just phenomenal. It is presented in 2.40:1 aspect ratio as well. The film simply looks amazing in each scene. Colors are bright and boast beautiful primary colors throughout. The rare green trees in New York City illuminate the brown and platinum colored buildings that eng...
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Boomstick ComicsBy Bryan Kluger