Check out more of our video interviews on our YouTube channel.
Judy Blume Forever is a triumphant celebration of the renowned children’s author who, at age eighty-five, continues to be a force for spotlighting important subjects and not caving in to those who wish to censor her. The film, which made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival and is now Emmy-nominated for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special and Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program, is a warm portrait of an inspiring woman who has influenced generations of children and adults.
I had the chance to speak with director and producer Davina Pardo, a double Emmy nominee this year, about her own experience growing up with Blume’s books and the path to getting this film made. She shared her positive working dynamic with her directing partner Leah Wolchok and the reactions that have left an impression from those who have seen the film.
You can watch the video above, and read below for an official summary and where to watch.
Film summary:
Generations of readers have found themselves in a Judy Blume book. Her name alone launches a flood of memories for anyone who’s gripped one of her many paperbacks.
For decades, Blume’s radical honesty has comforted and captivated readers – and landed her at the center of controversy for her frankness about puberty and sex. Now the beloved American author candidly shares her own coming-of-age story.
Emmy-winning filmmakers Davina Pardo and Leah Wolchok trace Blume’s journey from fearful, imaginative child to storytelling pioneer who elevated the physical and emotional lives of kids and teens, to banned writer who continues to fight back against censorship today.
Playful and poignant animations celebrate the magic and awkwardness of being young, while intimate conversations with acclaimed authors and artists reveal Blume’s profound impact on readers. Long-standing fans share open-hearted letters they wrote to Blume over decades.
With humor, sensitivity, and a healthy dose of adolescent cringe, Judy Blume Forever tells the story of the woman whose trail-blazing books changed the way millions of readers understand themselves, their sexuality, and what it means to grow up.
Check out more of Abe Friedtanzer’s articles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neWsO1Rk_q0
Judy Blume Forever is streaming on Prime Video.