Exclusive: Benny Safdie talks about religion, growing up, and 'Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret'

Silence on Set

We spoke with Benny Safdie about his latest beloved film, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. Safdie told some great stories about his life and personal connection to the film, even though he was shocked that they thought of him for the role. Safdie, who is known for some outlandish characters in some of the other films he has been in and/or worked on, said he has never opened himself up to a role that was this similar to his life (since Safdie is a dad who lives in a dual religion household). Safdie told some great stories about how he worked on making Herb the best dad he could be, the importance of a movie like this, his happiness that it has done so well, and the importance of enjoying being a kid while you can (because let's be honest, adulting isn't fun). So, if you loved the film, you will want to listen to Safdie's fun stories about making it and even his first interaction with Kathy Bates (which includes a story about her infamous role in misery).

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Shamindri De Sayrah

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

Eleven-year-old Margaret moves to a new town and starts to contemplate everything about life, friendship and adolescence. She relies on her mother, Barbara, who offers loving support, and her grandmother, Sylvia, who's coming to terms with finding happiness in the next phase of her life. Questions of identity, one's place in the world, and what brings meaning to life soon brings them closer together than ever before.

*Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret is currently in theaters nationwide.

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