"Little Women" proves director Greta Gerwig's prowess w/ modern, sophisticated telling of a classic

After six previous adaptations on the big screen, the iconic story of Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women” may be seen as rehashed and unoriginal to Hollywood, but feminist filmaker Greta Gerwig was able to tell a fresh, fun, and surprisingly modern retelling for a new audience with her 2019 film.

The film tells the story of the March sisters–Jo, Amy, Meg, and Beth–during and after the events of the civil war in 1861 and ‘68. All four sisters face struggles that they must overcome during the film: Jo works to get her writings published in a male dominated industry, Meg faces the consequences of marrying a low-status man, Amy must come to terms with unrequited love and lack of importance, and youngest sister Beth faces the hardships of her age and the effects of scarlet fever. 

While the story does tackle many serious and upsetting topics, the film is also extremely fun, lighthearted, hilarious, and enjoyable. Much of the humor comes from Saoirse Ronan’s performance as the quick-witted and quippy Jo, and Florence Pugh’s excellent work as the younger, whinier, and comedically-adolescent Amy. The banter between these two characters makes for the film’s funnier moments, and their relationship is the heart of the film during its first half. Timothee Chalamet, having worked with both Ronan and Gerwig in 2017’s “Lady Bird”, once again has great chemistry with his co-star, and gives one of the film’s more relatable and heartfelt performances.

The cinematography work greatly in the film’s favor, making many shots of the countryside or ballroom dances look breathtaking. In addition, the set design and costuming make for a beautiful and elegant looking film, and like all great period pieces, feels real, accurate, and timeless. I must also hold the hair and makeup design in high regard, as they are the two elements of the film that best help the audience determine which scenes are in the past, and which scenes jump ahead seven years.

In conclusion, Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women” is one of the better films of 2019. With great performances from everyone involved, an excellent and realistic screenplay, and top-notch work from set and costume designers, this movie is equally artistic and lighthearted. While the story does take place in the mid-1800s, Gerwig’s storytelling allows for a relatable film with events and lines of dialogue that could be present in a modern-day feminist film. The film is equally fun, emotional, and triumphant, and brings something unique for anyone in the audience.

Rating: 8/10