Friday, December 8, 2023

Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret

 Pros: I loved this book when I was younger, now over two decades ago and Kelly Fremon Craig delivers a great adaptation, though yes, liberties are taken, scenes and dialogue cut and the mother's (Rachel McAdam's) role expanded but the result is still great and so many of the themes and scenes are timeless and Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret is a true star. The set and acting is flawless.

Cons: Despite some of the scenes being verbatim, plenty remains left out though it does seem to remain insignificant at the end of the day, though I do think a vital scene formally ending things with Nancy (Elle Graham) and Margaret might have been needed. And there is the inconsistency of Herb's (Benny Safdie's) bandaged hand which seems to heal so quickly.

Recommend: Yes

Grade: B+

Side Notes:

-All the young actors are great and kudos for the realistic diversity.

-This film deals with puberty realistically but doesn't stray from the religious aspect, so important throughout the novel and something that is rarely dealt with so effectively today. 

-Kathy Bates is great as the devoted grandmother who stuck by her son's side.

-Now, most don't put such emphasis on religion, I mean, disowning your child because she married a Jew, that's just ridiculous. 

-Periods suck, I mean, it is great to get yours, at first, but that feeling doesn't last long at all. They're a huge pain. 

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