Awards spotlight: ‘ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT’S ME, MARGARET’ director on coming-of-age dramedy

Preston Barta // Features Editor

Judy Blume’s seminal novel – Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret – was published over 50 years ago. It continues to open a dialogue about adolescence, spiritual confusion and growing pains.

Passing through the hands of many preteens who’ve celebrated its honest depiction of girlhood and the relationship among different generations, the acclaimed story was adapted for the screen by writer-director Kelly Fremon Craig (The Edge of Seventeen).

The coming-of-age dramedy was released in the spring. Still, its strong critical performance (99% on Rotten Tomatoes) and praise for its performances, adapted screenplay and direction make it a worthy contender during this awards season.

Craig’s film centers on 11-year-old Margaret Simon (Abby Ryder Fortson), a sixth grader who moves with her parents (Rachel McAdams and Ben Safdie) from New York City to a New Jersey suburb. In addition to facing the messy, tumultuous throes of puberty, a new school and friends, Margaret struggles with her relationship with religion, often praying to God despite living in a secular household. 

Fresh Fiction recently had the opportunity to sit down (via Zoom) with Craig. In the video interview, we discuss her film’s true-to-life dialogue, exploration of youth and spirituality, and the sounds that remind you of home.

Enjoy the convo below, and catch Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, wherever you rent or purchase movies!