In the realm of cinematic storytelling, few films have captured the hearts of audiences like ‘Wonder.’ Directed by Stephen Chbosky and released in 2017, this poignant drama tells the story of Auggie Pullman, a young boy with a severe facial difference who navigates the complexities of middle school life. One of the film’s standout features is its authentic and inspiring English dialogues, which beautifully convey the emotions, challenges, and triumphs of its characters. Let’s dive into some of these memorable exchanges and explore the nuances of language that make ‘Wonder’ a true masterpiece.

Auggie’s Voice: The Heart of the Story

The voice of Auggie Pullman, portrayed by Jacob Tremblay, is the central narrative thread of ‘Wonder.’ His dialogues are written with such care and authenticity that they resonate deeply with viewers. Here are a few examples:

  • Auggie’s First Day of Middle School: “I’m Auggie Pullman. I won’t try to make friends today. I’ll just try not to die.”

This opening line sets the tone for the film, highlighting Auggie’s internalized fear of social rejection and his determination to survive the day without incident.

  • Auggie’s Reflection on Bullies: “When you look at a person who’s been bullied, you see them as they are. But when you look at a person who bullies, you see them as they want to be seen.”

This profound observation by Auggie encapsulates the film’s message about the complexity of human behavior and the need for empathy.

Julian’s Journey: From Bully to Friend

Julian, played by Alex Sharbatty, is one of Auggie’s classmates who initially bullies him but eventually becomes his friend. The transformation of Julian’s character is beautifully portrayed through his dialogues:

  • Julian’s Initial Bullying: “Why don’t you go back to where you came from?”

This line highlights Julian’s ignorance and the pain it causes Auggie.

  • Julian’s Regret: “I didn’t mean to say that. I just didn’t know what to say.”

Julian’s dialogue shows his vulnerability and the beginnings of his journey towards understanding and empathy.

Mrs. Viola Davis’s Wisdom: The Teacher’s Perspective

Mrs. Viola Davis, portrayed by Julia Roberts, is Auggie’s teacher and a guiding force throughout the film. Her dialogues are both wise and compassionate:

  • Mrs. Davis to Auggie: “I’m not going to tell you that this is going to be easy. I’m going to tell you that you are brave.”

This powerful exchange reinforces the theme of bravery and self-acceptance.

  • Mrs. Davis to Julian’s Mother: “You know, Julian’s a good kid. He’s just scared.”

Mrs. Davis’s empathy towards Julian’s parents illustrates the importance of understanding the root causes of bullying.

The Power of Language in ‘Wonder’

The English dialogues in ‘Wonder’ serve multiple purposes:

  • Character Development: The dialogues help to develop the characters’ personalities and backstories, making them more relatable and three-dimensional.
  • Message Delivery: The dialogues effectively convey the film’s core message of empathy, kindness, and acceptance.
  • Cultural Representation: The film showcases the diversity of English-speaking communities and their unique ways of expressing themselves.

Conclusion

‘Wonder’ is a testament to the power of language in storytelling. The film’s English dialogues are not just words on the screen; they are windows into the souls of its characters, conveying their hopes, fears, and triumphs. Through these dialogues, ‘Wonder’ teaches us the importance of empathy and the courage to embrace our differences. Whether you’re a fan of the film or a linguist, there’s much to be learned from the rich tapestry of words woven into ‘Wonder’s narrative.