Movie #3047 ........................."Are you there, God? It's Me, Margaret" (in theaters)

 Movie #3047 "Are you there , God.  It's Me, Margaret" (in theaters)  Well, when I saw this was coming out, I quickly got the book to read (able to do that in one afternoon --- YA book) , and then saw the movie the next day.  I was not familiar with Judy Blume books, but if I had a child, I would try to get him/her to read this because I think it is terribly universal, but then I am not the demographic group this is directed at. I just like film, and I like good stories with strong themes that can help us move in a positive direction to have better lives.  And this film does that.  Both the book and the film appear to be about growing up,  menstruation,  a kid's relationship with god and her family, and it does cover all  those areas, but I think it's about a lot more.  And I think it speaks to us now --because some of us are so set in our ways and refuse to relish in the diversity and individuality of each and every person we know, that we make it impossible for others to grow and be themselves.  This theme hits us very much in the divisive society we live in today --- if we don't be careful, we will stifle the next generation -- we will stunt their growth because we prevent them from thinking and being themselves.  Yes, we need to lean on each other, (the mother daughter and mother granddaughter relationships show that so well in this book/movie), and look to a god for some answers (the prayers she says whenever she wants a wish to come true)  but she learns by watching her family members that religion must include and not exclude, because by doing that it can tear a family, or in a more universal way, a society apart. Of course, since I read the book and saw the movie in a matter of two days, the big question is:  which did you like better?  I liked the movie better (Judy Blume, I think, would agree with me) because the high point (bringing in Kathy Bates to the gathering ) helped the blow up scene much more.  And the denouement in the film is glorious --- I had tears in my eyes when she finally steps on the ladder to becoming a woman --- the two actresses elevated that scene and reminded me just how important that moment is.  Also, the constant praying/ the title of the book became annoying while reading it, but in the movie, the transitions into those times was much better.  I'd give this a 4.5 out of 5 --- and recommend  it for not just female tweens, but male, as well.  And everyone, really --- we all went through growing up, and peer pressure, and dealing with families, etc..... if you go see it, look for yourself and I bet you find you in it!

"ARE YOU THERE, GOD?  IT'S ME, MARGARET"   2023  PG-13 1 hour and 46 mins

When her family moves from the city to the suburbs, 11 -year-old Margaret navigates new friends, feelings and the beginning of adolescence.

Director:  Kelly Freeman Craig

Writers:  Kelly Freeman Craig, Judy Blume

Actors:  Abby Ryder Fortson, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates