“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott, has been known as an American classic due to its inspirational story about four sisters living in Boston during and after the Civil War. 

The first movie interpretation of the novel was released in 1994 and greatly encompassed the significant values of the novel such as family, equality, and love. 

Recently, a new interpretation of the novel directed and written by Greta Gerwig has been released and modernizes the story, while still upholding originality. Several factors have made this movie truly enjoyable to watch, such as an admirable cast with an immense amount of talent, a variety of humorous dialogue, and emotionally intense scenes. Additionally, the movie emphasizes topics such as women’s empowerment and equality.

“Little Women” is centered around the March family, which consists of the oldest sister, Meg (Emma Watson), Beth (Eliza Scanlen), the youngest sister, Amy (Florence Pugh), and Jo (Saoirse Ronan). The movie also contained other talented actors such as Laura Dern as their mother, Timothée Chalamet as Teddy Laurence (Laurie), and Meryl Streep as Aunt March.  

This variation of the novel differentiates itself and repeatedly alternates throughout periods of time within the movie. For instance, the audience is first presented with a view of Jo March seven years into the future. The perspective between time gives the audience insight into future events but also leaves room for interpretation and inquisition. This tactic also captivates the audience and keeps them on their feet. 

Overall, the movie is a wholehearted story of four sisters who are on their journey to adulthood. During this time, the Civil War takes place. The movie touches upon the effects of war such as economic struggles of poverty. 

Furthermore, Jo is an aspiring writer who consistently declares her independence throughout the movie. Her decision to not marry makes her an outlier within society and she incorporates this idea within her writing. The oldest sister, Meg, takes an interest in Laurie’s tutor which results in marriage and also battles of internal conflict regarding her appearance in the view of society. Amy, who is the youngest, is more under the influence of Aunt March than the other sisters and pursues her passion for painting.

Even though the March sisters are always individually occupied with some event, they are all always brought back together and never fail to support each other through difficult times. The movie heavily emphasizes the importance of family and includes this concept within each scene. 

I would consider “Little Women” a movie masterpiece due to the quality of execution throughout the movie and the constant display of positive messages. Also, the well-rounded and talented cast keeps the audience mesmerized due to their humorous and emotional performances.

As a whole, I feel that this movie has captured the essence of “Little Women” and still maintains freshness for a modernized audience.