Netflix period drama with A-list star leaves fans 'disturbed' by plot

This gripping drama has left viewers feeling "disturbed" yet equally satisfied by its "uplifting" conclusion as they witness an A-list star tackle this period tale.

The Wonder is a psychological historical drama featuring Florence Pugh in the lead role of a film helmed by Sebastián Lelio, positioned during a fascinating period in British history.

Taking place in the aftermath of the Great Famine in Ireland, the story follows an English nurse who travels to a remote village to monitor a girl who is allegedly 'fasting'.

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Young Anna's tale mirrors many from the late 19th century who were thought to survive without consuming food whatsoever, with some even purporting to possess supernatural abilities.

In this instance, her relatives insisted she hadn't consumed anything for four months yet remained miraculously alive, reports the Express.

Pugh's character, Elizabeth Wright, must work alongside Sister Michael, portrayed by Josie Walker, and submit their observations separately to the local authorities.

However, with the devastation of the famine still casting a shadow over their community, the Irish residents view the nurse with suspicion, as does Anna's devoutly religious household.

A Rotten Tomatoes review says: "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."

Launched in 2022, the film boasts a stellar 85% rating on the site, with viewers continuing to "highly recommend" it to other cinema enthusiasts.

One review says: "This was a very interesting and well-made movie, and well worth watching.

"Set design, costumes, and acting were all great. It was fascinating to read up on the Fasting Girl phenomenon of the mid-1800s, which this history buff had never heard of."

Another added: "Themes of religion, misogyny, and child abuse all make this a pretty dark film. I was relieved at the 'happy ending'."

Meanwhile, someone else concurred that whilst the plot was "disturbing", the "uplifting" conclusion was well worth the wait.

For many viewers, the highlight of The Wonder was undoubtedly British star Florence Pugh, who has conquered Hollywood in recent times.

Recognised for her roles in Little Women, Midsommar, Don't Worry Darling and Dune, the performer has left her stamp on the business, and this picture proves no different, according to watchers.

A review says: "I mean, it's a Florence Pugh performance; it's great no matter what. But the movie is also pretty awesome. Highly recommended."

Even detractors of the narrative can't resist lauding the displays from the ensemble.

One said: "Slow going and kind of boring; the acting, on the other hand, was exceptional."

Upon its release, the film garnered a slew of nominations at the British Independent Film Awards, with Pugh bagging the British/Irish Actress of the Year gong from the London Film Critics' Circle. The cast also boasts the likes of Toby Jones, Elaine Cassidy and Tom Burke.

One fan ssaid: "A thrilling exorcism of beliefs."

Another review described the film as "initially a bit slow, but ultimately engrossing and rewarding."

For those looking to immerse themselves in a "disturbing" 1 hour and 43 minutes of psychological period drama, The Wonder is now ready for streaming on Netflix.