Current tensions across the world can leave anyone wondering whether compassion still exists. But in the new movie “Wonder,” actor Jacob Tremblay shows audiences the importance of being kind to those who are different. The 11-year-old says that with the role, he can help change the world. “[The movie is] about choosing kind, and choosing kind is just doing whatever you can to make someone else’s day better,” he said. “By including others, or just easily smiling.” The film, based on the New York Times best-selling novel, tells the story of August Pullman, a child born with facial deformities who doesn’t enroll in traditional school until the fifth grade. The transition wasn’t kind to “Auggie,” but Tremblay’s character wins over both his fellow students and those around him, all while shining a light on acceptance. The story has resonated with many children around the U.S., whether they’ve been bullied or if they’re affected by Treacher Collins Syndrome, the disorder responsible for Auggie’s physical appearance. Children's Miracle Network Hospitals even teamed up with movie ticket app Atom Tickets so moviegoers can donate $1 with ever “Wonder” movie ticket purchased. Tremblay, who first came into the Hollywood spotlight in the Oscar-nominated “Room,” says his co-star in this film, Oscar-winner Julia Roberts, made his role easier. The Canadian-born actor, who was nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2016, says he’s learned so much by just watching Roberts on set. He says she’s a kind and talented co-worker. “I saw how focused she is and how in touch she is with her character,” he said, adding that Roberts’ kindness to the cast and crew taught him that fame and kindness can go hand-in-hand. “Wonder”, which opened on November 17th, brought in $27.5 million at the box office to snag a second place spot opening weekend. Industry film rating site Rotten Tomatoes critics gives the movie an 86 percent rating, and fans gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
