Movie Review: ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.’
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Any book lover will tell you that to make a film adaptation of any novel that does the story justice, and holds its own, is a near-impossible task. Whereas a book’s length will allow for deep character development, fleshed-out plotlines, and satisfying story arcs, movies are tasked with fitting in an equally touching, memorable, and beautiful story within the span of about 90 minutes. And yet, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret., the 2023 movie based on the beloved Judy Blume book of the same name, does just that.
A timeless, coming-of-age tale about a young girl’s first foray into the awkwardness of puberty and womanhood, the movie certainly tugs on heartstrings, elicits more than a few knowing chuckles, and reminds us of what a special time in life that was—when we stood on the precipice of adolescence… so close, and yet, so far. It reminds us of a fleeting (though it felt endless) time when we were all in such a hurry to grow up.
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But even more than that, the film explores our deep, universal human desire for the divine. It centers around a young girl’s questions about the meaning of life and the God who designed it as she wrestles with her day-to-day struggles with family, friendship, and growing up—struggles that many young women watching will undoubtedly identify with.
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Beautifully directed by Kelly Fremon Craig (writer, The Edge of Seventeen), the film stars Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret Simon, an almost-teenager who simply can’t wait to be a woman. Raised by a Christian mother (Rachel McAdams) and a Jewish father (Benny Safdie), who have decided to keep religion out of Margaret’s life, she attempts to make sense of her innate sense of the divine with the many hurts that organized religion has caused those around her. Margaret claims to “hate” religious holidays in the beginning of the film, and yet, she can’t help but find herself searching for something greater than herself, talking to God.
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While Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates (who portrays Margaret’s loving yet lonely Jewish grandmother) always shine in whatever role they take on, Abby Ryer Fortson’s portrayal of Margaret made quite the impression—the young actress beautifully captured the innocence of that age while bringing incredible depth and masterful nuance to the role. It was easy to forget just how young Fortson is while watching her lead the film with such skill and artistry.
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. is a deep, charming, touching film that is well worth the watch for any young woman (and the man in her life)—yes, even if she’s already read the book.