(spoiler free)
Growing up we’re exposed to many different influences; family, friends and religion can all have a formative effect on the person we eventually become by way of our adolescence. In Kelly Freemon Craig’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret – an adaptation of Judy Blume’s 1970 novel – the same is true for eleven-year-old Margaret Simon (Abby Ryder Fortson). However, in Margaret’s case it’s actually a freedom from religion that’s helped shape her thus far. Yet with a move from her New York City home to the New Jersey suburbs suddenly sprung upon her, ironically, amidst her despair, she turns to god.
With her Christian mother, Barbara (Rachel McAdams) and her Jewish father, Herb (Benny Safdie) both agreeing that Margaret should pick her own religion when she’s old enough, she’s managed to avoid issues of faith for most of her childhood. But when her new teacher, Mr. Benedict (Echo Kellum) discovers that as a result of this she doesn’t celebrate any religious holidays, he suggests that religion would make the perfect topic for her year-long research project. And whilst she undertakes this project with great seriousness and dedication, for this pre-teen girl there are much more pressing matters dominating her life, namely boys, bras and the highly-anticipated arrival of her first period. The joys of growing up, eh?
Tasked with making sense of all Margaret’s adolescent drama is Abby Ryder Forston, who most will recognise as Cassie from the first two Ant-Man films. Before her wonderful performance here is even considered, her familiarity works both in her and the film’s favour, as audiences have literally watched her grow up on screen. Now several years on from her adorable appearances in those Marvel films, this feels like a perfect role for the young star. It’s brilliant to see her leading the film, which see appears to do with ease. She navigates the complexities of this impressionable time in Margaret’s life with a charming relatability and demonstrates her relative maturity with confidence. It’s a thoroughly charismatic performance and one that is essential in making the film just as compelling as it is.
The supporting cast are just as accomplished though, with Rachel McAdams’ efforts in particular warranting the most praise. Her performance as Margaret’s mother is so naturally affectionate, and she conveys a warmth that’s inherent to all loving mothers. Her on-screen hubby, Benny Safdie features less, but nonetheless still excels in helping to create the picture of the wholesome household that Margaret has been raised in. The pair share an organic chemistry that encourages audiences themselves to feel at home and root for all involved. Further contributing to this homely feel is Margaret’s grandmother Sylvia, portrayed by Kathy Bates. She enjoys a close bond with Margaret and Bates showcases Sylvia’s protective nature with an endearing and entertaining edge that bring’s her to life with much vigour.
With such a superb cast it would be easy to attribute the film’s success solely to them, however Craig’s adaptation of Blume’s work is a delight in itself. With the help of her production and costume designers, as well as some well-placed needle drops the picture’s 70s setting is well-established. This makes way for her takes on the themes of religion, puberty and family which are so engaging and respectful, but most importantly, honest. She also brings a natural comedic edge to much of her work that helps her explore these elements in more depth without making the film too heavy. Ultimately she crafts a unique and specific story of one pre-teen girl’s journey into womanhood that has the ability to connect and speak to many.
Although all of this should be unsurprising for those who are familiar with Craig’s impressive debut The Edge of Seventeen (2016). Delivering yet another thoughtful coming-of-age tale she proves that her first film was no fluke. Carefully juggling Margaret’s understandably distressed journey through puberty with her considered exploration of religion, Craig reminds audiences that if you’re going to put your faith in anything, why not put it in yourself?
Written by Hamish Calvert
★★★★
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