“WONDERSTUCK is one of those endearing films that latches on, and doesn’t let go” – Kathy Kaiser – Matinee Chat
WONDERSTRUCK – Rated PG – 1 hr. 56 mins.
Starring Julianne Moore, Michelle Williams, Oakes Fegley, Millicent Simmonds, Jaden Michael and Tom Noonan
Based on the book, and subsequent screenplay by Writer/Actor Brian Selznick, we embark on an adventure many years ago, as deaf, yet adventurous Rose (Millicent Simmonds) seeks to find her actress mother Lillian Mayhew (Julianne Moore) amongst the excitement and streets of New York City…
At the same time, as we venture into the past with Rose, we also venture in the present, as we follow the life of young Ben (Oakes Fegley), who is trying to come to terms with his new existence, after the untimely death of his mother Elaine (Michelle Williams), and not really knowing who his father is…
As Rose seeks to find a path for herself amongst the streets of New York City, and with the help of her older brother Walter (Corey Michael Smith/Tom Noonan), Ben finds that he too must travel to the NYC, in hopes of finding out his father’s true identity…
With the help of his newfound friend Jamie (Jaden Michael), Ben finds himself in the midst of a MUSEUM OF WONDERS, still seeking to find his father, as his mother never fully disclosing this information, has left Ben with nothing but angst…and WONDER, as he seeks to find any speck of evidence that may lie before him, about his father’s true identity…
I give WONDERSTRUCK a rating of MUST SEE ON THE BIG SCREEN~ This incredible tale, which unfolds through exquisitely portrayed storylines of the past, and of present day, is one of those fascinating tales that each and every child and adult in this world must experience ON THE BIG SCREEN! Moore is incredible in her dual role this time around, in both the past, and the present, as is the young and very talented Millicent Simmonds, as she too leaves a very touching performance on the big screen, as we travel through the past with her, while simultaneously traveling in the present with the also very talented Oakes Fegley. Director Todd Haynes (FAR FROM HEAVEN, CAROL) managed to not only bring out these exceptional performances from his entire cast, but he also somehow managed to totally bring to life Selznick’s exceptional tale of loss, longing and wonderment, as you too will experience amongst each and every frame of this exceptional film. WONDERSTRUCK is one of those astonishing films that not only excites the child in each of us, but harkens to awaken the movie-lover in all of us too, from its perfectly portrayed storyline, to the incredible images brought to life on screen…this is one film that after experiencing, you will definitely, never forget!!!
Kathy Kaiser
MATINEE CHAT with Kathy Kaiser 