In 2017, Lionsgate released the heartwarming film “Wonder,” based on R.J. Palacio’s novel. This cinematic gem, produced with a modest $20 million budget, soared to incredible heights, grossing a staggering $306.2 million at the box office while receiving acclaim from both audiences and critics alike. Given the immense success of “Wonder,” it was only natural for Lionsgate to explore further narratives within this heartwarming universe.
Beyond the commercial considerations, “Wonder” provided a much-needed reminder of the power of love in a world sometimes marred by hatred. The film followed the poignant journey of 11-year-old August “Auggie” Pullman, born with a rare genetic disorder and facial deformity, who faced relentless bullying and discrimination from his peers at a private school. Now, in the spin-off sequel/prequel titled “White Bird” (previously known as “White Bird: A Wonder Story”), the spotlight shifts to Auggie’s former bully, Julian, and his poignant experiences with his grandmother, who survived as a Jewish girl in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. She embarks on a journey to share her past experiences, using them as a means to impart crucial life lessons to her beloved grandson.
The First Glimpse: White Bird Trailer
The first official trailer for “White Bird” made its debut on Lionsgate’s YouTube channel on June 23, 2023. This captivating trailer sets the stage for the film by showcasing scenes from “Wonder” that vividly depict the torment endured by young Auggie Pullman due to bullying. As the trailer progresses, it transitions to Julian’s grandmother, who seeks to draw from her own harrowing experiences to educate her young grandson about the perils of bullying. Through flashbacks, the audience gains insight into her struggles as a Jewish girl facing persecution in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Her survival is attributed to the kindness of a friend and his family, a testament to the enduring power of compassion.
A New Trailer, A New Name
On April 17, 2023, the second trailer for “White Bird” was unveiled, notable for its updated title, which dropped the ‘A Wonder Story,’ and a revised release date.
The Long-Awaited Release
The journey to bring “White Bird” to the big screen has been a patient one. Originally scheduled for release on September 16, 2022, the film faced delays, pushing the premiere to October 14, 2022. However, just a month before its release, Lionsgate decided to pull the film from its schedule. Now, viewers can finally anticipate the film, which will enjoy a limited release on August 18, 2023, followed by a wide release on August 25, 2023.
The Stellar Cast
“White Bird” boasts a stellar ensemble cast, led by the remarkable Helen Mirren, who portrays Julian’s grandmother, Sara Albans. This Academy Award-winning actor has graced numerous successful period dramas and boasts an illustrious career spanning over five decades. Her accolades include an Academy Award, BAFTA Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Tony Award.
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Bryce Gheisar reprises his role as Julian Albans, Auggie’s former bully, from the 2017 film. Beyond his involvement in the “Wonder” series, Gheisar has appeared in notable films such as “A Dog’s Purpose” and “The 15:17 to Paris.” He also starred in the Disney Channel sitcom “Walk the Prank” and headlined two limited series on Nickelodeon.
Gillian Anderson takes on the role of Julian’s mother, Vivienne. Anderson is celebrated for her work in popular series such as “The X-Files,” “The Crown,” and “Sex Education.” Her filmography includes notable titles like “The Last King of Scotland,” “The Pale Blue Eye,” and “The Spy Who Dumped Me.” The remaining cast includes Ariella Glaser as the young Sara and Orlando Schwerdt as Julian I.
A Tale of Compassion and Love
“White Bird” picks up where “Wonder” left off, following Julian’s expulsion from Beecher Prep for his mistreatment of Auggie. In the wake of these events, Julian’s grandmother pays a visit and is moved to share a poignant story from her past. It’s a tale brimming with compassion and love, qualities Julian sorely needs. Grandmère takes her grandson on a journey down memory lane, recounting her experiences as a young Jewish girl in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Thanks to the heroic efforts of her classmate and his parents, who risked everything to shield her from the ravages of the Nazis, she not only survives but also lives to impart to her grandson the enduring power of love and empathy.
The Official Synopsis
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Lionsgate’s official synopsis for “White Bird” reads:
“From the best-selling author of Wonder, the book that sparked a movement to ‘choose kind,’ comes the inspirational next chapter. In White Bird, we follow Julian (Bryce Gheisar), who has struggled to belong ever since he was expelled from his former school for his treatment of Auggie Pullman. To transform his life, Julian’s grandmother (Helen Mirren) finally reveals to Julian her own story of courage — during her youth in Nazi-occupied France, a boy shelters her from mortal danger. They find first love in a stunning, magical world of their own creation, while the boy’s mother (Gillian Anderson) risks everything to keep her safe. From director Marc Forster (Finding Neverland and Christopher Robin), screenwriter Mark Bomback, and based on R.J. Palacio’s book, White Bird: A Wonder Story, like Wonder before it, is an uplifting movie about how one act of kindness can live on forever.”
The Creative Team
“White Bird: A Wonder Story” is helmed by director Marc Forster, fresh off the success of “A Man Called Otto,” starring Tom Hanks. Forster’s extensive filmography includes notable works such as “Monster’s Ball,” “Finding Neverland,” “Stranger Than Fiction,” “Quantum of Solace,” “World War Z,” and “Christopher Robin.”
The screenplay for the film is crafted by Mark Bomback, known for his work on blockbuster films like “The Wolverine,” “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” and “War for the Planet of the Apes,” as well as the 2019 drama “The Art of Racing in the Rain.” Bomback recently served as the showrunner on the Apple TV+ miniseries “Defending Jacob.”
Matthias Koenigswieser and Matt Chessé, frequent collaborators of Forster’s, handle cinematography and editing, respectively. The film’s score is composed by the 15-time Oscar nominee Thomas Newman, renowned for his work on “Wall-E.”
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Sum It Up!
When Does White Bird’ Come Out? promises to be a captivating addition to the “Wonder” universe, delving into the themes of compassion, love, and the lasting impact of kindness. With a stellar cast, a talented creative team, and a powerful narrative, this film is set to touch the hearts of audiences around the world.
FAQs
“White Bird” is both a prequel and a spin-off of “Wonder.” It explores the backstory of one of the characters from “Wonder” while also offering a unique narrative.
The role of Julian’s grandmother, Sara Albans, is portrayed by the acclaimed actress Helen Mirren.
· “White Bird” will have a limited release on August 18, 2023, followed by a wide release on August 25, 2023.
The official synopsis of “White Bird” highlights the transformative journey of Julian as he learns courage and compassion through his grandmother’s past experiences in Nazi-occupied France.
The film is directed by Marc Forster, known for his work on films like “Finding Neverland” and “Quantum of Solace.”