Wonder (2017) Plot Summary & Ending Explained

August ("Auggie") Pullman, portrayed by Jacob Tremblay, is a bright and spirited 10-year-old boy residing in Brooklyn alongside his parents, Julia Roberts as Isabel, his father Owen Wilson, older sister Olivia ("Via") played by Izabela Vidovic, and their beloved dog, Daisy. Auggie was born with a rare facial deformity known as mandibulofacial dysostosis, or Treacher Collins Syndrome, which led to 27 surgeries, enabling him to see, smell, speak, and hear. Until now, he has been home-schooled, but it is finally decided that he will face the challenges of middle school at Beecher Prep.

Before classes commence, Auggie meets Mandy Patinkin who plays Principal Tushman. He warmly welcomes Auggie and arranges for him to tour the school with fellow students Noah Jupe as Jack, Bryce Gheisar as Julian, and Charlotte. When school begins, Auggie is met with curious stares and hurtful jokes from his peers, which causes him to suffer in silence. Nevertheless, he finds solace in a budding friendship with Jack and encouragement from his teacher, Daveed Diggs as Mr. Browne.

During Halloween, despite wishing to dress as Boba Fett, Auggie opts for a Ghostface costume from the previous year, believing it will provide him with anonymity. However, upon entering homeroom, his heart sinks when he overhears Jack chatting with his friends about him, unaware that Auggie is nearby. The most painful comment being that "[he] would kill [himself] if [he] looked like Auggie." Distressed, Auggie falls ill, prompting his mother to leave a mother-daughter day with Via to pick him up. Though Via is hurt by her brother's troubles, she encourages Auggie to go trick-or-treating.

Auggie's world brightens when he befriends Summer, who offers him support after he confides in her about Jack's betrayal. Jack soon recognizes his mistake and attempts to reconcile with Auggie by partnering with him for the Science Fair, despite Julian's objections. Tensions escalate when Julian confronts Jack, leading to a physical altercation, and Jack receives a two-day suspension. While he initially struggles to express his motives in an apology, Principal Tushman understands and encourages Jack to embrace his better nature, which leads to a heartfelt reconciliation through Minecraft.

Meanwhile, Via is discovering her own journey as she enrolls in the drama club with Justin, portrayed by Nadji Jeter. As their relationship blossoms, she divulges the truth about Auggie to him, revealing that she is not an only child. Justin displays kindness towards Auggie, making Via feel more comfortable about sharing her family’s dynamic. When Vi is thrust into the spotlight as Miranda's understudy in 'Our Town,' she delivers a breathtaking performance, earning a standing ovation from an audience that includes her supportive family.

As the school year progresses, Auggie's circle of friends expands, yet he continues to endure bullying from Julian and his gang. When Mr. Browne catches Auggie with a hurtful photo of him photoshopped out, he takes decisive action, leading to a meeting with Principal Tushman. The meeting illuminates Julian's mother's irrational decision to exclude Auggie's image from their family, arguing that her son’s typical behavior should outweigh any consequences for his bullying. Despite their attempts at manipulation, Principal Tushman remains firm on the school's anti-bullying policy.

The climax of the story arrives during a field trip when Auggie and Jack find themselves attacked by older students. However, their friends unite to protect them, showcasing the allies Auggie has made over the year. Emotions run high as they gather by a lake, where Auggie reflects on the kindness he has unexpectedly received.

At graduation, Auggie expresses gratitude to his mother for her support in enrolling him in school. She poignantly tells him, "You really are a wonder, Auggie." Honored with the Henry Ward Beecher Medal, recognizing his courage and strength throughout the year, Auggie is met with applause from his classmates. The film concludes with Auggie delivering a voiceover echoing a final lesson from Mr. Browne: >"Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle. And if you really want to see what people are, all you have to do is look."

The movie "Wonder" concludes with Auggie winning the Henry Ward Beecher Medal, an award that recognizes remarkable and exemplary students. This moment symbolizes how Auggie’s quiet determination and kindness have impacted those around him. Throughout the story, Auggie faces relentless challenges due to his facial deformity, but he manages to inspire his classmates, encouraging them to reflect on their own actions and grow into better people. The decision to award him reflects not just his resilience, but also the influence he's had on his peers, leading to positive changes in their behavior. For example, Julian, the main bully, is ultimately suspended due to his cruelty, and other students like Jack and Summer choose to stand up for Auggie instead of siding with the bullies. The school's principal, Mr. Tushman, highlights how Auggie’s integrity, empathy, and courage have inspired everyone, making the school a kinder place. The standing ovation Auggie receives at the ceremony underscores the community’s recognition of his extraordinary strength and the positive impact he’s had on everyone around him.

Meanwhile, the film also explores the journeys of Auggie’s family members. Via, his sister, has her own arc of growth as she navigates feelings of being overlooked and deals with the loss of their beloved grandmother. Her breakthrough comes when she performs in her school play, finally gaining confidence and reconciliation with her family and friends. Her relationship with her new boyfriend Justin deepens, bringing her happiness. Auggie’s parents, Isabel and Nate, grow closer to each other and support their children’s emotional journeys, finding joy and purpose in their shared experiences.