It is not a new concept to bring Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 novel to the screen. Countless TV and film adaptations have been attempted in the past - some doing well, others... not so much (1978 Miniseries, I’m looking at you.) The newest take on this literary classic, however, stands head and shoulders above all others and comes in the form of a feature film adapted and directed by actor-turned-filmmaker Greta Gerwig.
“Little Women” is Gerwig’s second venture behind the camera following 2017’s ‘Lady Bird’ - A touching ode to her hometown of Sacramento which earned her Oscar nominations for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. As someone who was positively blown away by Gerwig’s directorial debut, I had incredibly high hopes for her attempt at this well-renowned story and I was certainly not disappointed. It is clear to see that this is one of - if not the best - representations of the adventures of Amy, Beth, Jo and Meg to ever be brought to our screens. But what is it that makes Gerwig’s version thrive where others have failed?
The short answer: everything. Gerwig has absolutely left no stone unturned in this pitch-perfect period adaptation. Feeling as fresh as ever, despite being almost word for word to the original text.
Little Women is 2 hours and 15 minutes of beautiful filmmaking, with shots framed like warm paintings, a lively and perfectly paced score and costumes that despite being authentically period look comfortable and modern. Not to mention the incredible cast including Saoirse Ronan, one of the most talented actresses around at the moment, who truly shines as the feisty and emotional Jo March. Especially working alongside Timothee Chalamet - who also worked with Saoirse and Greta on Lady Bird (creating incredible chemistry as Jo and Laurie) - as well as Meryl Streep as Aunt March and the fantastic Florence Pugh, who’s portrayal of Amy gives a whole new perspective and insight on the character that other adaptations have missed entirely. Truly impeccable casting that allows a modern audience to connect more than ever with these iconic characters.
In adapting a book like this, there is always the danger of it turning into something that feels more like a GCSE English lesson as opposed to a truly entertaining film, but despite its age, there is so much potential in this source material. The core themes of the novel: Wealth, War, Feminism and Family, are things that are as relevant now as they have ever been - and Gerwig’s acknowledgement of this is where her strengths lie, and what enabled her to turn this film into something incredibly close to the novel, yet with a new lease of life that keeps the March sister fire burning still in the 21st century, 150 years after they were originally introduced to the world.
Greta Gerwig’s Little Women is heartwarming and at times heartwrenching, emotional and inspiring. It radiates positive energy that will make you want to follow every dream you've ever had. A timeless adaptation of a timeless classic that truly allows to ring true the words of the heroine herself:
"No one will ever forget Jo March"
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