Kelly Fremon Craig's adaptation of the Judy Blume novel follows the coming-of-age dramedy completely to the letter. The common experiences and epiphanies of adolescence are all seen here, just like in every other one of these films.
There isn't really anything new here, and other movies (like Bo Burnham's Eighth Grade) have done this with considerably more power, focus, and nuance. But the script and performances of this film are so brimming with brightness, charm, and wit that the story can feel fresh even when it isn't.
Craig's commitment to the teenage girl perspective is refreshing to an extent, and it provides some truly hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes sad sequences that are unique to this film. And although such a perspective could run the risk of becoming alienating to people who have never been teenage girls, it never does.
Margaret stays a sympathetic and relatable character despite her flaws because the script makes sure that every other characters' flaws are understood too.
Even though the film doesn't have a lot to say, it's a perfectly awkward little portrait that certainly gives the feels like it should.
There isn't really anything new here, and other movies (like Bo Burnham's Eighth Grade) have done this with considerably more power, focus, and nuance. But the script and performances of this film are so brimming with brightness, charm, and wit that the story can feel fresh even when it isn't.
Craig's commitment to the teenage girl perspective is refreshing to an extent, and it provides some truly hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes sad sequences that are unique to this film. And although such a perspective could run the risk of becoming alienating to people who have never been teenage girls, it never does.
Margaret stays a sympathetic and relatable character despite her flaws because the script makes sure that every other characters' flaws are understood too.
Even though the film doesn't have a lot to say, it's a perfectly awkward little portrait that certainly gives the feels like it should.