During the initial shooting of “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” Rachel McAdams and director Kelly Fremon Craig formed an immediate bond, leading to a shared emotional moment. On their very first day, the pair found themselves in tears, connecting over the profound sentiments of motherhood.
“I was so moved during my first scene, and there we were, both of us tearing up,” shared McAdams, who took on the role of Margaret’s mother, Barbara. “The scene was about a mother’s struggle to strike a balance between her family and her own needs, and how this emotional tug-of-war impacts her.”
McAdams praised the supportive atmosphere on set. “Having just become a mother five months prior, it was refreshing to see how accommodating Kelly was, always ensuring I had time for breaks when needed. It truly felt like a haven for mothers.”
Kelly echoed McAdams’ sentiments, highlighting their shared experiences as working mothers. “From day one, it felt like a shared journey. Rachel has this incredible ability to portray a myriad of complex emotions with just a glance or a single word. Motherhood, with all its love, pride, fear, and challenges, is beautifully represented in Rachel’s performance.”
However, before McAdams even came onboard, Fremon Craig faced a challenge. The acclaimed author Judy Blume was initially hesitant to allow her treasured 1970 novel to be adapted for the big screen. Persistence paid off when Fremon Craig, accompanied by renowned producer James L. Brooks, met Blume in Florida to discuss the project. With heartfelt dedication, they managed to persuade Blume to grant them the rights.
Regarding her decision to join the film, McAdams stated, “When I learned about the adaptation, I was eager to be part of it. I was well aware of how discerning Judy Blume is about adapting her works.”
Though McAdams had been familiar with Blume’s other writings, she only read “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” after becoming a mother herself. The reading experience, she reflected, was both nostalgic and revelatory.
Fremon Craig, on the other hand, had cherished memories of the book from her younger days. “I first read it when I was 10. It felt as if it was written just yesterday. Blume’s sincerity in her writing makes it evergreen,” she commented.
The film’s casting saw Abby Ryder Fortson stepping into the shoes of Margaret, a teenager facing the challenges of puberty and spirituality. Joining the cast were Benny Safdie and Kathy Bates, playing Margaret’s father and grandmother, respectively.
Fremon Craig emphasized the decision to set the movie during its original time frame, capturing its timeless essence. Throughout the filming process, Blume was actively involved, offering insights and helping to enhance the film’s authenticity.
McAdams cherished her interactions with Blume, praising her for her incredible storytelling skills and attention to detail. “She enriched our understanding of the characters and the world they inhabited,” McAdams remarked.
Reflecting on the film, McAdams mentioned, “It’s a touching narrative that resonates with both women and men. The story evokes warmth, bringing back those awkward yet poignant memories of adolescence.”
“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” is slated for release on April 28, presented by Lionsgate.