A psychological thriller inspired by the 19th-century phenomenon of the “fasting girls” and adapted from the acclaimed novel by Emma Donoghue (Room), THE WONDER is an absorbing exploration of faith versus science. The mystery at the film’s core is captivating, but the true wonder is Florence Pugh in formidable form delivering a performance that will leave audiences awe-struck. Set in the Irish Midlands in 1862, a young girl stops eating but remains miraculously alive and well. An English nurse, Lib Wright (Pugh) is brought to a tiny village to observe the eleven-year-old Anna O’Donnell (Kíla Lord Cassidy) where tourists and pilgrims have congregated to witness the girl who is said to have survived without food for months. Is the village harbouring a saint ‘surviving on manna from heaven’ or are there more ominous motives at work? Director Sebastián Lelio expertly weaves the intricate threads of the thriller with sensitive direction allowing story beats to unfold in a way that is wonderfully captivating. A stunning breakout performance from Cassidy alongside Pugh at the top of her game, and outstanding performances from the ensemble cast are a welcome gift to the big screen.