Judy Bloom’s Bible about an 11-year-old girl who prays until puberty has proven to be a source of comfort to girls (and often boys) of all generations. Her enduring power lies in her confused protagonist, caught in the wake of her childhood, embroiled in family politics and a turbulent relationship with God.
It is a tall order to adapt such beloved, some might even say sacred, sources published 50 years ago. However, writer-director Kelly Fremon Craig, whose latest film the border of seventeen serves as a compassionate big sister to a daisy, makes the challenge light. Exploring the timeless issues of a girl who longs to lose her youth but is unprepared for the perils of growing up, Fremon Craig delivers a film of disarming vulnerability and complexity.
like the book a daisy it’s so much more than a coming-of-age story for kids.
At its epicenter, Abby Ryder Fortson plays a flailing bottle of angst ready to pop, her performance raw and expressive without being over the top, which given the sweeping drama that dominates her short life is no small feat. The film opens with Margaret and her parents Barbara (Rachel McAdams) and Herb (Benny Safdi) pick up some sticks and leave behind Grandma Sylvia (Kathy Bates), who has an unbreakable bond with her granddaughter. After being immediately recruited into a new group of friends by a peer in the neighborhood, Margaret now has to worry about babies and bras and misses Sylvia desperately, while struggling with the growing problems caused by her parents’ differing religious backgrounds ( Barbara was raised a Christian, Herb is Jewish).
The supporting cast is endlessly joyful to watch. Bates is a firecracker and is Ryder Fortson’s natural partner (a moment of wanton, mischievous bliss between the two after a Broadway show is one of the film’s highlights). Safdie, whose career has swung beautifully between indie director and character actor, is a certified charmer, his delightfully eccentric energy bouncing off McAdams’ more grounded presence.
However, McAdams is the stronger hand. Margaret’s new school and a personal mission about religion put new pressures on Barbara (she has “bullied mom” issues, sure, but she’s also dealing with a painful past) and the film shines when the actor’s performance lovable and emotionally moving takes center stage. She is positively relieved when with Ryder Fortson, as mother and daughter struggle with issues of right and wrong. Fremon Craig, meanwhile, keeps the tone soft and nuanced with bursts of comic relief, never lapsing into sentimentality.
like the book a daisy it’s so much more than a coming-of-age story for kids. The relationships that cross it make it a drama full of humor, vitality and empathy. The setbacks, from a mean comment at school to Sylvia’s newfound loneliness, are heartbreaking, the triumphs of moments of community celebration. Margaret’s world may be small, but thanks to Fremon Craig’s faithful adaptation, her journey through it leaves a big impact.
Source: EmpireOnline
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
