Netflix is preparing to introduce a highly praised film with a remarkable 99 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes to its streaming service.
The platform frequently updates its selection, removing certain titles and adding numerous others on a regular basis.
This particular coming-of-age drama garnered critical acclaim but did not perform well at the box office.
If this film has slipped under your radar despite its impressive ratings, that could be the reason.
Based on Judy Blume’s beloved 1970 novel, the story centers on Margaret Simon, an 11-year-old girl who relocates with her family from New York City to suburban New Jersey.
As she embarks on her sixth-grade year, she faces the challenges of early adolescence, including new friendships, peer pressure, first crushes, and the anxieties associated with puberty.
Margaret also begins to explore her spiritual identity. With a Christian mother, Barbara (Rachel McAdams), and a Jewish father, Herb (Benny Safdie), she feels conflicted about religion and often engages in private dialogues with God, seeking answers about life, faith, and her role in the world.
The film features a memorable performance by Kathy Bates as Margaret’s grandmother.
We are referring, of course, to Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.
The 2023 film will be available on Netflix starting Thursday (September 11).
On Rotten Tomatoes, it earned an almost-perfect 99 percent from critics, who noted, “Effervescent and refreshingly frank about the travails of puberty, this long-awaited adaptation does full justice to Judy Blume’s seminal novel.”
This is exciting news for those who have read the book and enjoyed it!
One reviewer called it a ‘joyous gem,’ while another concurred: “This warm wonderful film might still be set in the 70s but it feels just as relevant as Judy Blume’s book did.”
Fans gave it a strong 94 percent rating based on over 250 reviews.
A viewer commented, “I read this book as a kid and loved it. Brought back some amazing nostalgia. Enjoyed it a lot.”
Many agreed on the ongoing relevance of the film’s themes, with another saying: “Quality movie! Everything from music, dialogue, and cinematography was on point. Rachel McAdams killed it with the role!”
The conversation extended to Reddit, where one user admitted: “Just saw this film and I’m absolutely floored. One of my favorites of the year so far.
“So endlessly cute and charming.”
Another user echoed the sentiment: “Possibly now one of my favorite movies, period. Absolutely loved it and it resonated with me deeply. Could not have been more perfectly cast too.”
Upon its release two years ago, the film did not meet financial expectations, earning $21.5 million against a $30 million budget.
It faced stiff competition from films like The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Evil Dead Rise.
Let’s hope Netflix can help it find the audience and appreciation it truly deserves!
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret will be available on Netflix starting September 11.