Introduction
The 2017 film Wonder, directed by Stephen Chbosky, tells the heartwarming story of Auggie Pullman, a boy with Treacher Collins syndrome who navigates friendships, bullying, and self-acceptance in a mainstream school. While the film’s emotional depth and compelling performances have been widely praised, its sound design also plays a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling. This analysis explores Wonder from a sound director’s perspective, focusing on its plot, unique audio elements, and how sound contributed to its overall success.
1. Narrative and Sound: Building Auggie’s World
At its core, Wonder is a coming-of-age drama that emphasizes empathy and personal growth. The sound design in the film subtly enhances these themes by providing an immersive auditory experience that reflects Auggie’s emotions.
1-1. Use of Silence and Internal Soundscapes:
The film employs silence strategically, especially in Auggie’s moments of self-doubt or isolation. For instance, the scenes where Auggie removes his hearing aids offer a muted, almost vacuum-like effect, mirroring his internal world.
1-2. Ambient Sound to Build Realism:
School environments are brought to life with layered background sounds—chatter, rustling backpacks, and hallway echoes—to create an authentic setting.
1-3. Character-Specific Sound Cues:
Each key character has a subtle sound identity. For example, Via’s introspective moments are accompanied by soft, melancholic tones, reinforcing her role as Auggie’s protective but sometimes overshadowed sister.
2. The Emotional Power of Music and Soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack plays a significant role in guiding the audience’s emotional journey. The balance between composed score and licensed songs is particularly effective in Wonder.
2-1. Sentimental Score by Marcelo Zarvos:
Zarvos’ compositions use piano and string arrangements to evoke warmth and sensitivity. His score never overwhelms but rather complements the narrative, accentuating tender moments without feeling manipulative.
2-2. Strategic Use of Popular Music:
The soundtrack features songs like We’re Going to Be Friends by The White Stripes, which add to the film’s nostalgic and heartfelt tone. Music choices help establish a youthful, hopeful atmosphere.
2-3. Contrast Between Diegetic and Non-Diegetic Sound:
Some key moments use diegetic sound (sounds within the film world) to highlight realism, while others use non-diegetic sound to emphasize emotions, such as when Auggie imagines himself as an astronaut, with cinematic space-themed sound effects.
3. Sound as a Narrative Device in Key Scenes
The sound design in Wonder does more than simply accompany the visuals—it actively contributes to the story.
3-1. Auggie’s Hearing Aids and Sound Perspective:
A unique aspect of the sound design is how it shifts to represent Auggie’s auditory experience. In a pivotal scene, when Auggie’s hearing aids malfunction during a camping trip, the muffled sound mix immerses the audience in his panic and vulnerability.
3-2. Contrast in Classroom and Home Soundscapes:
The classroom sounds—sometimes bustling and overwhelming—contrast with the softer, warmer tones of Auggie’s home, reinforcing the idea that home is his safe space.
3-3. Bullying Scenes and Sound Distortion:
During moments of bullying, the film uses sound distortion techniques to emphasize Auggie’s distress. Harsh whispers and echoes create an unsettling atmosphere, making the audience feel his emotional turmoil.
Conclusion
From a sound director’s perspective, Wonder is a masterclass in subtle, emotionally-driven sound design. The film’s careful balance of silence, ambient realism, and an evocative soundtrack enhances its storytelling, making Auggie’s journey even more immersive. Sound is not just an accessory in Wonder—it is a fundamental component that shapes the audience’s experience. This thoughtful approach to sound, combined with a strong narrative and heartfelt performances, is a key factor in why Wonder resonated with audiences and became a commercial and critical success.