Fans of Call The Midwife are flocking to Netflix to watch a 'remarkable' period drama that has captivated audiences with its dark and mysterious storyline. The film adaptation of a 2016 novel is set in a rural Irish village and follows a British nurse sent to observe a young girl who claims to have survived without food for months.
A Sinister Twist on Period Drama
While it boasts the costumes and dialogue befitting a period drama, the storyline of this particular film distinguishes itself from the typical romance of the genre with a sinister twist. Based on a 2016 novel, this 2022 film brought the 'disturbing' story to the screen in a manner that left critics full of admiration and viewers awarding five-star reviews.
The Plot
The Wonder is a psychological drama set shortly after the Great Famine in a rural Irish village, following the tale of a British nurse dispatched to observe a young girl. The child is 'fasting' yet miraculously managing to survive without consuming anything for months, according to her family. The trauma of the famine runs deep within the community, and many locals are far from welcoming towards the English nurse.
The dark and troubling truth behind the young girl's fast is gradually uncovered, along with a secret she has been concealing from her deeply religious family. She believes that through fasting she will be able to release the soul of the person who subjected her to terrible violence.
Critical Acclaim
A viewer shared their thoughts on Rotten Tomatoes, writing: "The Wonder is mysterious with a disturbing story. Beautiful settings match the film's perfectly slow pace as Pugh steadily reels you in to the cultish drama. I was very pleased at how the film wrapped up."
Beloved British actress Florence Pugh leads the cast, playing nurse Lib Wright in a performance that has garnered considerable acclaim. Best recognised for her roles in Little Women, Midsommar, Don't Worry Darling and Dune, the actress has firmly established herself in cinema in recent years, and her work in this film appears to be no exception.
Ensemble Cast
Joining her in an outstanding ensemble cast are Tom Burke, Niamh Algar, Elaine Cassidy, Dermot Crowley and Brían F. O'Byrne. Also featuring is Kíla Lord Cassidy, who portrays the patient Anna O'Donnell, whom the nurse is tasked with regularly monitoring and keeping a close eye on.
Themes and Reception
The film explores weighty themes of religion while offering a fascinating snapshot of what rural Ireland looked like during this era, which some viewers have described as "disturbing". The narrative unfolds at a measured pace, which has drawn some criticism from those hoping for greater drama, with one viewer describing it as "slow going and kind of boring" while nevertheless hailing the acting as "exceptional".
Another review says: "A must see! Had amazing writing and storyline that shows real history and connects to cultures. The lead actress plays this role amazingly!"
The Wonder is streaming on Netflix now.
