Little Women

 

I can’t say I knew too much about the story of Little Women except it was based on the lives of four sisters in and round the American Civil War. Going in fresh in one of the most widely read and frequently adapted novels probably put me in the minority but going in fresh meant I could enjoy the story with no prior knowledge.


Greta Gerwig’s solo directorial debut Lady Bird was a hit that had a large appeal among audiences and even garnered a few Oscar nominations. It was a fine debut by Gerwig who follows up her semi-biographical coming of age tale with a coming of age tale set in and around the American Civil War. Based on the lives of four sisters, and adapted from the novel by Louisa May Alcott, Gerwig charts the lives of the four sisters, brilliantly intercutting their lives before and after the American Civil War.

The Crisscrossing of different eras has attracted some criticism among the more traditional fans who feel that diverting from the linear narrative may make it confusing for those who know little about the story. Contrary, editing the narrative between the different eras was clear and easy to follow and in one big example the juxtaposition of the narrative and the contrasting fates made the most moving sequence of the film so emotionally devastating. The way it led up to this heartbreaking moment with clever editing resulted in an incredibly impactful ending.

Working once again with Greta Gerwig, Saorsie Ronan (Jo) leads the four sisters with a remarkable central performance. Determined and independent, Jo is the least material driven of the four sisters, her refusal to follow the cultural norms and stand up against traditional norms speaks volumes on the current voice of feminism. Though her refusal to follow these norms, whilst inspiring, leaves her to feel the least happy and most lonely of the sisters. Ronan shares an intoxicating, romantic friendship with Timothee Chalamet’s Laurie (who is somewhat rather annoying at times) which drives a small rivalry with her young sister, Amy (Florence Pugh) who also harbours feelings for him.

Integral to the film is the relationship shared by the four sisters (played by Ronan, Pugh, Emma Watson and relative new-comer Eliza Scanlen). Each of the stars share a terrific chemistry that allows the sisters close and loving relationship with one another feel genuine and real. It helps the audience feel the warmth of their loving relationship that at times felt tested from loss and war, a war which has taken their father away. Because the sisters' relationship is so beautifully crafted, you strongly experience every one of their experiences of loss and loneliness.

Exquisitely written and directed, Gerwig excels crafting a wonderfully designed drama with a powerful story, terrific set and costume design and incredible performances.