Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates head to Charlotte for “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” film

“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” is the classic 1970s Judy Blume novel that follows a sixth grade girl with big questions about puberty, religion and everything in between.

Why it matters: In addition to bringing big-name stars Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates to Charlotte, the production continues the city’s resurgence as a popular filming destination. Projects like this one can bring millions in economic impact dollars into the area.

• “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” has been awarded funds from the state’s film and entertainment grant, which means it’ll receive a rebate of up to 25% on qualifying film expenses. The rebate program is a big incentive for both film and television productions.

The cast: Rachel McAdams will play Margaret’s mom in the film. And Kathy Bates will play her grandmother. 13-year-old Abby Ryder Fortson will play Margaret.

Extras are still needed for the production. Check Tona B. Dahlquist Casting for opportunities to be in the film. Recently the casting agency put out a call for four female stand-ins.

The state of play: After recovering from HB2 setbacks and a changed film tax incentive program, NC’s film industry is gaining momentum again, even during a pandemic. [Go deeper]

“While the outbreak did definitely impact North Carolina, the ability to kind of keep it more manageable than it was in other parts of the country definitely helped,” Guy Gaster, director of the NC Film Office tells me. “I think also being less dense than other popular filming areas has been a help as well.”

• Other productions are also coming to Charlotte. Recently “Delilah,” an OWN drama based and filmed in Charlotte, wrapped up production for its first season.
• The NC Film Office also lists “Evolution” a feature length film as being in pre-production and set to film in the Charlotte region.