A Wrinkle in Time - Film Review

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Directed by Ava DuVernay, A Wrinkle in Time (2018) is a visually ambitious adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s classic 1962 science fantasy novel. With a star-studded cast including Storm Reid, Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, and Mindy Kaling, the film explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness. Despite its mixed critical reception, the movie remains a ground-breaking cinematic effort, particularly in its diverse casting and visual storytelling.

The film follows Meg Murry (Storm Reid), a bright but troubled middle schooler struggling to cope with the mysterious disappearance of her father, Dr. Alex Murry (Chris Pine), a brilliant physicist who was experimenting with the concept of interdimensional travel. Alongside her younger brother, Charles Wallace (Deric McCabe), and her classmate Calvin (Levi Miller), Meg embarks on an extraordinary journey through space and time to rescue her father.

Guided by three celestial beings—Mrs. Whatsit (Reese Witherspoon), Mrs. Who (Mindy Kaling), and Mrs. Which (Oprah Winfrey)—the trio "tessers" to fantastical worlds. Their quest leads them to face "The It," a malevolent cosmic force spreading darkness across the universe. To save her father and herself, Meg must embrace her flaws, recognise her inner strength, and confront the darkness both within and beyond.

The film’s central conflict is an allegory for the eternal struggle between light (good) and darkness (evil). "The It" symbolises fear, hate, and self-doubt—forces that threaten to consume individuals and societies. This thematic battle is reflected in Meg’s internal struggle with insecurity and grief.

Meg’s journey toward self-acceptance mirrors the broader fight against darkness. As she learns to value herself and accept her uniqueness, she symbolises hope’s ability to triumph over despair. The film emphasises that light resides within everyone, but it must be nurtured and believed in to defeat the shadows.

Meg’s emotional arc revolves around self-acceptance. At the beginning, she feels awkward and unworthy, ostracised at school and burdened by the loss of her father. Through her journey, Meg discovers that her imperfections are her strengths. This message resonates powerfully with young audiences, particularly girls of colour, as Meg’s natural hair and intelligence are celebrated rather than erased. The film’s emphasis on loving oneself despite perceived flaws conveys an uplifting, empowering message.

Love is depicted as the most potent force in the universe. Meg’s love for her father propels her across galaxies, and it is ultimately love, rather than violence or intellect, that defeats The It. This theme challenges conventional narratives where physical strength or intelligence alone conquer evil.

The familial bond between Meg, Charles Wallace, and their parents underlines the idea that love endures across space and time. Even Calvin, who comes from a troubled home, finds solace and acceptance within the Murry family dynamic.



Dr. Murry’s work with tesseracts symbolises humanity’s insatiable desire to explore and understand the universe. While scientific inquiry drives the story forward, the film suggests that knowledge without compassion or wisdom can be dangerous. The three Mrs. serve as guardians of cosmic wisdom, encouraging Meg to seek both intellectual and emotional truth. Their presence highlights the importance of guidance and mentorship in personal development.

Meg Murry (Storm Reid): Meg is the emotional anchor of the film. Storm Reid’s performance captures Meg’s vulnerability and resilience. Her character arc—from a self-doubting outsider to a confident heroine—reflects the universal experience of growing into one’s identity.

Meg’s intelligence and determination are her defining qualities. Rather than relying on conventional heroism, her greatest triumph comes from her ability to love herself and others unconditionally. This subverts traditional adventure narratives where physical prowess often reigns supreme.

Charles Wallace (Deric McCabe): Charles Wallace is portrayed as a precocious, almost otherworldly child. His intellectual brilliance is contrasted by his emotional innocence. His eventual possession by The It represents how even the most brilliant minds can be corrupted by darkness when left unchecked.

Through Charles Wallace, the film conveys the dangers of arrogance and the need for humility. His vulnerability also illustrates how children can become conduits for both good and evil, depending on the influences they encounter.

Calvin O’Keefe (Levi Miller): Calvin is a supporting character who provides emotional support to Meg. While he is not as central to the narrative, his inclusion underscores the film’s message that love and kindness can transcend personal hardship. His dysfunctional family background contrasts with the warmth of the Murry's, reinforcing the theme that love is a transformative force.

Dr. Alex Murry (Chris Pine): Dr. Murry represents both the promise and peril of scientific ambition. His disappearance is caused by his overreach into the unknown, but his motivations stem from a desire to better humanity. His relationship with Meg is central to her journey; his admiration for her mind and spirit gives her the courage to embrace her identity.

Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which: The three Mrs. function as celestial mentors, embodying different aspects of wisdom:

Mrs. Whatsit (Reese Witherspoon) is the most playful and impulsive, representing youthful curiosity.

Mrs. Who (Mindy Kaling) communicates through famous quotations, reflecting the importance of collective human knowledge.

Mrs. Which (Oprah Winfrey) is the most powerful and sagacious, symbolising transcendental wisdom and cosmic authority.

Their guidance provides Meg with the tools she needs to complete her journey, but they ultimately trust her to find her own strength.

The film relies heavily on CGI to create otherworldly landscapes. From the lush, surreal beauty of Uriel to the bleak, mechanical conformity of Camazotz, the visuals externalise the film’s thematic dichotomy between light and darkness. However, some critics argued that the visual spectacle occasionally overshadows character development. The ambition of DuVernay’s vision is undeniable, but the heavy use of effects can feel overwhelming.

Bright, warm colours dominate scenes of light and love, while The It is represented through shadowy, cold hues. This visual contrast reinforces the moral struggle at the heart of the narrative. Meg’s physical transformation—her untamed curls becoming a source of pride rather than shame—symbolizes her emotional growth and self-acceptance.

Ramin Djawadi’s musical score complements the film’s epic scope while maintaining emotional intimacy. The sound design accentuates the contrast between the ethereal realms and the oppressive forces of darkness.

A Wrinkle in Time received mixed reviews. While critics praised its ambition, diversity, and emotional sincerity, others criticised its uneven pacing and underdeveloped characters. Despite its flaws, the film holds significant cultural importance as the first $100-million film directed by a Black woman and for its inclusive casting. The film’s message of self-love and the battle between light and darkness continues to resonate, especially with young audiences who see themselves reflected in Meg’s journey.

A Wrinkle in Time (2018) is an ambitious, visually striking adaptation that modernises Madeleine L’Engle’s beloved novel for a new generation. While its narrative pacing and heavy reliance on CGI may not appeal to all viewers, its core themes of love, self-acceptance, and the power of light against darkness remain timeless. Through Meg’s journey, the film advocates for the belief that every individual possesses unique strengths capable of overcoming the darkest forces. In embracing its message of empowerment and inclusivity, A Wrinkle in Time stands as both a cinematic achievement and a profound cultural milestone.

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