The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a new film that just hit theaters last week.  Based off of Stephen Chbosky’s 1991 novel by the same name, the film is a great representation of the original story, considering Chbosky stepped in as director.

Starring Logan Lerman and Emma Watson, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a must-see, quirky story of a high school freshman trying to find his niche.  Charlie’s past hurts his reputation with his middle school friends, but quickly welcomes his new life with senior students, Sam and Patrick.

Throughout the film, Charlie struggles with the memories of his Aunt Helen’s fatal car accident, which happened years ago. From the beginning, he admits that he is “both happy and sad and [he’s] still trying to figure out how that could be.”  The memory flashes reveal little about the significance of Charlie’s aunt, until the end of the film.

He finds it easier to understand his feelings through Sam, a girl he is clearly attracted to and with whom he creates an intense connection with.  The film does a great job showing Charlie’s internal problems along with his developing friendships.

The film, filled with impactful, passionate quotes gives great words of advice—as well as a song lineup that’s great for anyone who appreciates a good soundtrack.

While Charlie, Sam, and Patrick drive in a truck through tunnels at night, Charlie says that he feels “infinite.”  A sense of youthfulness and carefreeness flows throughout the film as the trio listen to oldies while cruising into the city skyline.

The movie is extremely well rounded; it makes you laugh and cry, and by the end, you’ll wish it wasn’t over.  Although it is mainly about high school students, anyone would enjoy The Perks of Being a Wallflower—it’s well worth the somber lows and fantastic, energetic highs it brings.