A critically acclaimed period psychological thriller, hailed by viewers as a "masterpiece" and the "best movie of all time", has arrived on Netflix for UK audiences. The film, starring Marvel legend Florence Pugh, is drawing fresh attention for its haunting portrayal of a 19th-century mystery.
A Haunting Tale Inspired by Historical Fact
Originally released in 2022, The Wonder transports viewers back to the 1850s Irish countryside. Pugh plays Lib Wright, an English nurse sent to a remote village to observe a young girl who claims to have survived without food for months. While not a direct true story, the narrative is powerfully inspired by real historical records of so-called "fasting girls" from that era.
The film is an adaptation of the 2016 novel by Emma Donoghue, the author behind the bestselling Room. Donoghue also penned the screenplay, ensuring a faithful yet cinematic translation of her work. Shot on location in County Wicklow and Dublin five years ago, the production meticulously recreates the austere atmosphere of rural Irish life in the 1800s.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Awe
The film has earned impressive reviews, holding a strong 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics and audiences alike have praised its unsettling power and central performance. One viewer described it as "stunningly dark yet hopeful", while another emphasised that it's "never dull thanks in large part to the haunting score and soundscape, and Florence Pugh's truly remarkable central performance."
The praise continues to pour in from streaming audiences discovering the film. "Every frame in this film is a masterpiece," declared an admirer, highlighting the subtle use of light and colour. Another fan was left utterly captivated, gushing, "Best movie of all time I can't believe this movie. I am in complete awe." Many have noted the film's disturbing yet realistic exploration of human behaviour, with one advising viewers to "be prepared to be disturbed."
Florence Pugh's Chilling Performance
While Florence Pugh has delivered standout roles in projects like Midsommar and We Live In Time, her turn in The Wonder is considered by many to be a career highlight. Her portrayal of Nurse Wright, a woman of science confronting profound faith and mystery, anchors the film's psychological tension. The supporting cast, including Irish actress Niamh Algar as the Narrator, adds further depth to the compelling story.
For fans of period dramas seeking something beyond the ordinary, The Wonder offers a uniquely gripping and thought-provoking experience. It blends historical intrigue with deep psychological suspense, all framed within a visually arresting depiction of 19th-century Ireland. The film is available to stream now on Netflix.
