The Wonder
Kids say
Based on 2 reviews
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
The Wonder
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Wonder is a pensive period drama -- set in 1860s Ireland -- that is female-led, with a strong, complex lead at its core. There is also some drug use, sex scenes, occasional strong language, and references to child sex abuse. It explores the religion versus science debate, and while it does support the latter, especially where the health of a child is concerned, it remains non-judgmental. Lib Wright (Florence Pugh) is a nurse, who is grieving the loss of both her husband and child. She is seen taking opium on occasion, to help overcome her pain. She remains spirited and empathetic, though, especially toward her patient, Anna O'Donnell (Kila Lord Cassidy), looking out for her well-being in a way that it seems nobody else will. The film veers into moments of body horror. A character spits out a bloody tooth and a cut finger is somewhat gory. In one scene, a child is force-fed. Two characters have sex, in their clothes, up against a wall, while another is seen attempting to masturbate, only to give up. There is use of the words "f--k" and "Jesus Christ."
What's the Story?
In THE WONDER, English nurse Lib Wright (Florence Pugh) heads to Ireland, in the 1860s, to study and observe the young Anna O'Donnell (Kila Lord Cassidy), who is said to have not eaten in months. Tourists visit to witness this child they believe to be a miracle from God -- but Lib is more concerned with keeping the girl alive.
Is It Any Good?
Set in 1860s Ireland, this intriguing film delves into thriller territory at times, then horror, yet remains a slow-burning, pensive period drama that exists somewhere between genre lines. The Wonder is based on a novel by Emma Donoghue, the same author who penned Room, which was also adapted into a widely praised movie. As seen in that story, Donoghue has a great ability for characterisation, in limited and somewhat intimate settings. Much of this film focuses on the two women at the core; a nurse (Pugh) and patient (Cassidy). It's a nuanced and complex situation, that has so much bubbling under the surface.
Pugh is wonderful in the leading role, bringing depth to a character with so much history. You feel Lib's past, you see the pain in her eyes. Somewhat bizarrely, the film is bookended with a breaking of the fourth wall. But ignore this and you'll be rewarded with a narrative that explores a fascinating territory with a deft, yet capable touch.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the science versus religion debate inThe Wonder. How were these two approaches portrayed in the film? What impact did it have on the characters?
Would you describe Lib as a positive female role model? What makes a good role model? What character strengths did she show?
Did you find any of the scenes or discussions disturbing? If so, which ones and why?
Discuss the drug use in the film? Why did Lib take drugs? Were there consequences? Did it glamorize it?
How was sex portrayed in the film? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Movie Details
- In theaters: November 2, 2022
- On DVD or streaming: November 16, 2022
- Cast: Florence Pugh, Tom Burke, Niamh Algar
- Director: Sebastian Lelio
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: History, Science and Nature
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Courage, Integrity, Perseverance
- Run time: 103 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: for some sexuality
- Last updated: December 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Fatima
Faith drama based on true story has some war imagery.
-
Don't Worry Darling
Stylish Harry Styles thriller has erotic scenes, drinking.
-
Gloria Bell
Nuanced, mature character study about a fascinating woman.
For kids who love stories set in Ireland
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate