Little Women (Film Review)

Star Rating:✩✩✩✩✩

A timeless story, Little Women by Louise Alcott, has been rebooted by director and screenplay writer Greta Gerwig - the genius behind the award-winning film Ladybird. There have been quite a few versions of Little Women, but this adaptation is number one in my eyes as Greta has maintained a traditional yet modern version, and the whole cinematic production is faultless and empowering!

As most of us know, the story is set in 1933 and revolves around the four 'March' sisters and their journey of what they want in life and how they will get there. While waiting for their father to return from the American Civil War the girls spend time with their neighbours, a mysterious, slightly rebellious boy and his generous, kind-hearted tutor. All hope lies on these women to pick a rich husband, so that their family isn't destined to live in poverty. Well that is what their Aunt Marge thinks, but with love, ambition and talent, these Little Women still have a choice because "just because my dreams are different than yours, doesn't mean they aren't important".

The four sisters, Jo (Saoirse Ronan) the writer, Meg (Emma Watson) the actress, Amy (Florence Pugh) the artist and Beth (Eliza Scanlen) the musician, were portrayed beautifully by these actresses, with Saoirse upholding the stubborn and driven persona of Jo. Emma signifies the beauty and elegance of Meg, Florence appears quite the rebel in her character of Amy, and Eliza characterises the gentle and loving nature of Beth. Gerwig made sure that many of the scenes consisted of the sisters layering their voices over one another, creating a "symphony of sound", as Emma Watson put it. This demonstrated a natural free, energising effect, which harmonised the story beautifully. Timothée Chalamet’s performance was a good example of this effect, as the young man Laurie tries to meet the upper-class status of his grandfather (Chris Cooper), but finds he is better suited to mischief. His tutor, John (James Norton) tries to keep Laurie in check. This character may not have as bigger part as the others, but he embodies feminine qualities on an emotional level which adds to the significance of the story. Other performances by Laura Dern playing the sisters’ mother and of course Meryl Streep as Aunt Marge added to the charismatic, heart-warming feel to the story.

The set, costume, make-up and sound are all phenomenal in setting the atmosphere for this film. Transporting us back in time to the 1930s and transforming young, playful girls into elegant, sophisticated women. Furthermore, the flow of the feature followed a non-linear narrative that contributed greatly to the story’s emotional impact. 

This is a film not to be missed, due to its storytelling, cinematic craft and the performances of some of the best actors of their generation. Gerwig's take on the story, while not losing any of Alcott’s warmth, authenticity or wit, makes this film a special treat and one of the films of the year!