When we think of extreme make up techniques on motion pictures, we lean toward horror thrillers and creature features, or fantasy epics that bring magical beasts to life. You might not initially think of a tender, grounded emotional drama like Wonder, Stephen Chbosky's outstanding adaptation of R.J. Palacio's best-selling book. But when you see this incredible video about the make-up process that Jacob Tremblay underwent to transform into "Auggie" Pullman for the film, you will appreciate his performance -- and the effort of the Wonder team -- all the more.
This clip is part of the DVD and Blu-ray release of Wonder, which will street from Lionsgate films on digital January 30, followed by the 4K Ultra HDTM Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD on February 13. And even though we were amazed at the make up used to enhance Jacob Tremblay's performance in Wonder, watching the full process that this 11-year-old boy had to endure is nothing short of gobsmacking. I have two boys. They wouldn't sit still in a chair long enough to receive this treatment if I paid them. They wouldn't do it for ONE day. Tremblay did it for several days on the set of Wonder. His effort earned him a Critics' Choice nomination, while the makeup has earned an Oscar nod.
Wonder tells the heartwarming tale of August "Auggie" Pullman, a child with a facial deformity who, in the source book, we never get to see. All we do is read and learn about people's reactions to Auggie's looks, and how those experiences shape him. That wouldn't work for a movie -- film is a visual element -- so it was up to Chbosky and his team to devise a method to turn Tremblay into this on-screen realization of the boy readers around the world had grown to love.
Wonder was a hit for Lionsgate when it reached theaters in November, posting a healthy $130 million at the domestic box office off of solid reviews, and an additional $135M in international tickets sold. The book's popularity helped, but having lead actors like Jacob Tremblay, Owen Wilson, and Julia Roberts puts audiences in seats. But critics and crowds liked what they say, so I expect people will want to add this movie to their personal collections with the physical Blu-ray or DVD hits shelves on February 13.
Want to know what else is coming to theater this year? Bookmark our guide to the 2018 Movie Releases and stay up to date on every new release.
