For many relatively young readers, Stephen Chbosky's novel The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of the most important books of their lives. Naturally, when a film version of the 1999 novel was first announced - originally with the legendary John Hughes as screenwriter - millions rejoiced. But, after a lengthy period of "development hell," this film was released. In an exceptionally rare move, the book's author, Stephen Chbosky (a film school grad), was hired to direct and write the screenplay for the film. And it paid off. Perks was released to critical acclaim, earning itself an 86% on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes (its consensus reads: "The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a heartfelt and sincere adaptation that's bolstered by strong lead performances") and winning a number of smaller festival awards.
The film tells the story of Charlie, a teenager whose troubled past has led him to a point in his life where he has not discovered who he really is. The film shows the highs and lows of Charlie's life - from discovering new friends, to discovering himself sexually, and to dealing with detractors big and small.
The film not only cemented itself in its watchers minds not only because of its entertainment value, but because of thematic value. Perks deals with depression, anxiety, abuse, being gay in a world that hasn't fully accepted it, and growing up and being a teenager.. Few films (and books), many argue, deal with such material in such a realistic, engaging, and important way. That is why Perks is such an endearing, classic film and novel.
