Netflix viewers who love a coming-of-age drama should watch this film next
Netflix’s fresh series, Forever, has already captivated audiences with its relatable adolescent characters.
The show, based on Judy Blume’s novel of the same name, revolves around high school athletes Keisha (Lovie Simone) and Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.) as they experience their first true love.
While this eight-episode series is the most recent adaptation of Blume’s novels, it isn’t the only one available on the streaming platform.
In 2023, Lionsgate launched the dramedy Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, inspired by the author’s 1970 book of the same title, which some have hailed as a ‘life changing’ film.
Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, the film also explores adolescence, focusing on 11 year old Margaret Simon, reports Surrey Live.
After spending her entire life in New York City, Margaret’s family relocates to New Jersey, where she finds it difficult to adapt.
The synopsis states: “Eleven year old Margaret is uprooted from her life in New York City for the suburbs of New Jersey, going through the messy and tumultuous throes of puberty with new friends in a new school.
“She relies on her mother, Barbara, who is also struggling to adjust to life outside the big city, and her adoring grandmother, Sylvia, who isn’t happy they moved away and likes to remind them every chance she gets.
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Ant-Man star Abby Ryder Fortson takes the helm as the titular character in the new flick, with Mean Girls legend Rachel McAdams playing her on-screen mum.
The cast also features Oscar winner Kathy Bates portraying Margaret’s gran and director-actor Benny Safdie filling the shoes of her dad.
Beyond exploring the awkwardness of puberty, the movie also dives deep into the ways young ones grapple with their religious beliefs.
Critics lavished the drama with acclaim at its premiere, gifting it an almost perfect 99 per cent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Even the casual film buffs joined in the chorus of praise, bestowing a stellar 94 per cent audience score on the platform.
Enthusiasm among fans translated into hearty recommendations, with one marking it as a must-watch: “See it with your girlfriends! We loved it. And, even the old ladies in the theatre were laughing it up.”
Another well-pleased cinemagoer commented: “This movie is well-cast and fantastic! I’ve already recommended it a dozen times. People of a certain age will definitely remember the book, and parents of tweens (and up! ) will feel rewarded to share this gem of a film with their children.”
A third enthusiast hailed the 2023 release as one for the history books: “This movie was fantastic. It is sure to be a classic! I recommend for everyone! Young or old,” they declared.
And yet another fan couldn’t contain their excitement on Google reviews, acclaiming: “I don’t ever leave reviews on movies. But THIS movie makes you want to shout out to everyone you know that YOU ABSOLUTELY NEED TO SEE THIS!!”
Forever and Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret are streaming on Netflix now.