The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a wonderful film. It might even prove to be a great film, depending on how repeat viewings stand the test of time. It’s certainly one of the best films of year so far, one that absolutely should not be missed.

What makes Wallflower so special is the casting and performances of the three main characters. Most outstanding is the fellow playing Patrick (Ezra Miller.) From the preview, you would guess that his character is merely the “gay comic relief.” In actuality, his character is complex and very real, and his performance is captivating without feeling the slightest bit overplayed. He almost perfectly captured certain individuals right out of my own 80’s high school past, having been a wallflower myself, who like the main character found a collection of misfits to hang out with and be myself with. You almost never see this kind of flamboyant teenage character played straight – it’s refreshing and impressive.

The kid playing the lead character of Charlie (Logan Lerman) plays his emotionally complicated role with great skill and reserve. He is likable and believable, and he has enough presence to ground the role. As for Emma Watson, she is damn near perfect as the heartbreaking object of Charlie’s affection, combining radiance (she glows on-screen!) with normality and a beautifully submerged self-loathing. Her performance is really good, but it’s her dazzling presence that pushes the film over the top, because it allows the film to so effortlessly capture the emotional torment of being in love as a shy but deep wallflower-type. You just take one look at her and you get everything he is feeling, instantly!

But it’s not just the three actors, of course. The story is wonderfully told, with good dialog, a good score and soundtrack, and really nice pacing. There are some exceptionally lovely scenes in this movie, scenes I very much look forward to experiencing again the next time I watch it. My wife and I both cried several times during this film. For anyone who has felt like an outcast in life, this film speaks eloquently to the emotions of that particular plight.

I’m not sure how wide its distribution is (everyone I’ve mentioned it to outside of New York City has never heard of it,) but I very highly recommend you see it any way you can.