Wonder
Threshold Analysis
Ten-year-old Auggie Pullman, born with severe facial differences after 27 surgeries, leaves home education to brave fifth grade. The film explores his struggle for acceptance while showing how his courage gradually transforms the hearts of classmates, teachers, and his own family — each wrestling with their own quiet burdens.
Concerns
- One instance each of God's and Jesus' names used irreverently
- One stronger profanity word — nearly cost the film its family rating
- Bullying depicted realistically; some scenes may distress sensitive children
- Mild alcohol presence in adult scenes
Positives
- Powerful message: choose kindness over self-interest
- Intact, loving two-parent family modeled throughout
- Courage and perseverance rewarded — Auggie receives a character award
- Consequences for cruelty shown clearly; bullying is never celebrated
Content Flags
IMDb and Dove confirm mild-to-moderate language. One use of stronger profanity noted by Dove Foundation, which nearly cost the film its family seal.
Bullying is a central theme — a classmate deliberately excludes and demeans Auggie. No physical violence beyond typical school-age conflict.
IMDb Parents Guide flags mild alcohol presence; nothing glorified or central to the story.
Dove notes one misuse of God and Jesus' names by a minor antagonist character — a single instance but real enough to flag.
Discussion Guide
- Auggie felt invisible and unwanted at school — have you ever felt that way, and how does knowing God sees you change that feeling?
- The school awards Auggie for courage, not for being the smartest or most popular — what does the Bible say about what makes someone truly great?
- Julian treated Auggie badly but his parents later apologized on his behalf — why is it important for families to take responsibility when someone in our family hurts another person?
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Get Started FreeOverview
The story of August Pullman – a boy with facial differences – who enters fifth grade, attending a mainstream elementary school for the first time.