“Little Women”

“Little Women,” directed by Greta Gerwig, brings to life the classic story written in 1868 by Louisa May Alcott. The story of the March sisters has been in the hearts of those who have read the book for quite some time. Personally, I think this movie did a fantastic job of retelling, reimagining and bringing to life an already very beloved story.

The cast includes strong female actresses, including Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Meryl Streep and Laura Dern. Ronan, who came into the spotlight for her leading role in “Ladybird,” also directed by Gerwig, plays the role of Jo March, a very strong-willed character and a passionate writer. In addition to these leading ladies, Timothée Chalamet is perfectly cast as Theodore “Laurie” Laurence, the rich and arrogant yet caring grandson of the Marches’ neighbor. 

The story follows the lives of the March sisters and their mother while their father is away at war, while also fast-forwarding several years into the future and following the sisters in their separate adult lives. The movie does a wonderful job of making the viewer feel close to its characters. You begin to understand the loving bond between these four sisters as they experience struggles and hardships as they transition out of childhood.

Most have certain expectations for a period film like “Little Women”: stunning costumes, sets and scenery. This film certainly does not disappoint. The time period is expressed well through the clothing and the lifestyle of the characters.

“Little Women” is already in the running for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Picture, and Ronan is nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. I highly recommend “Little Women” to those who are familiar with the story as well as those who are not; it is simply an all-around great work.