Beautifully crafted yet haunting, “The Wonder” exceeded all my expectations, pulling me into the curiosities and horrors of the eerie Irish countryside. Unlike any other traditional drama, I have ever viewed, the film opens with the line: “We are nothing without stories, and so we invite you to believe in this one.” Within 108 minutes, the film does exactly that.

Originally a novel by Emma Donahue, director Sebastian Lelio invites us to believe in a story full of wonders. Lib Wright, an English nurse, has been summoned by a committee to investigate 11-year- old Anna O’Donnell who appears to be a miracle from God. She claims to have not eaten in four months, surviving only on manna from heaven; This draws in worshippers of the prospective saint to the quiet Irish village. Thus, Lib is instructed to act as only an observer, confronting the skepticism of the source of Anna’s life-giving faith as they grow closer over time.

The crowning jewel of the film, Florence Pugh delivers yet another captivating performance as Lib Wright. Pugh leads us through her initial doubt and stoicism to her later empathetic actions. Pugh balances the realistic nature of the film with its evident mystic elements with ease, making the viewer feel just as unsettled as Lib is. Like in all of her films, Pugh portrays an abundance of emotions that push the plot forward without seeming melodramatic; This is what truly makes the movie a psychologically disturbing view.

The film is shot in a gloomy gray palette, with the only colors being the respective blues and yellows of Lib and Anna’s dresses, thus intensifying the distinctive traits of the main characters. The plot creeps along sluggishly, interrupted by brief moments of intensity. Composer Matthew Herbert enhances the chilling and uncomfortable energy with a silent yet suddenly howling score.

However, the film is not without its faults. Although a period piece, the film is bookended with an artistic take on a fourth wall break, which I found unnecessary and rather distracting from the engrossing message. It feels pretentious and desperate, like a cheap attempt to make the movie more unique. Instead, I find that the film would have functioned better as a true period drama.

“The Wonder” is quiet yet deeply thoughtful, layered with questions of faith, family, and famine. Completely unexpected in all the right ways, this eerie film is a testament to science over superstition and furthers solidifies Florence Pugh’s natural talent.