Little Women - 2019
Little Women is the 19th century period piece remake that you had no idea you needed but will be so glad you witnessed. After the mud-trudging of Uncut Gems, we are all in need of a cold shower. This film is the perfect antidote. Quite simply, Little Women is bright and sweet in the way that all of the best pictures are. Yet, it is also tough and gritty, as full of audacity as it is saccharine romance. This is why Greta Gerwig was the right woman for the job.
A remake that hewed closely to the original narrative could have easily come off as dated or stale. These young women's terrific adornments matching a tale just as old-fashioned. But that is NOT the case with Gerwig leading this enterprise. Not by a long shot. Instead, she culls the novel for its finer points, and presents a strikingly modern story (Or, as one genius friend of mine called it - "fresh"). In truth, Louisa May Alcott herself had these elements in her own stories. Her characters were pictures of beautiful femininity counterbalanced with firm resolve about what they wanted in life and how they were going to go after it.
To that end, Gerwig does previous adaptations one better by actually shoehorning aspects of Alcott's own life into the story's narrative. It's no secret that Jo's character is based largely on Alcott's own experiences as a writer, and the siblings akin to her own. But here, Jo's character actually goes to a publisher (the always fantastic Tracy Letts) and fights for her rights to publish. Likewise, her take on Amy's exploits in France highlight her independence and principles. In so doing, Gerwig takes the feminist convictions of the original tale and empowers the March sisters more than ever before.
Beyond this, look this thing is just incredible to watch! The costumes and production design are picturesque. It features an incredible wealth of young actors doing spot on work (Pugh and Ronan's performances are among the best all year), a gorgeous score, lithe movement and timely themes, and is simply altogether lovely. This is a date movie with heart, an all ages treasure of warmth and wonder and all the best things about love and life. It teaches us that every journey has its setbacks and disappointment, but with friendship and family on our side, we can always brave even the toughest waters.
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