Why I Cried Four Times Watching Little Women

Why I Cried Four Times Watching Little Women

By just a look at the title, you might stray away from this movie because of its supposed “old-timey” feel or you might be immediately attracted to it due to the iconic novel written by Louisa May Alcott. Whatever your first impression, you will not regret watching this movie. 

The movie centers around a family of four sisters: Jo (Saoirse Ronan), Beth (Eliza Scanlen), Meg (Emma Watson), and Amy (Florence Pugh) and their journeys toward self-discovery while simultaneously trying to find a purpose in a world where women are only worthy of being a housewife. Viewers will find a world full of romance, drama, pain, and suffering, joy, and bliss all rolled up into a beautiful film. 

This movie empowers young women to pursue their passions despite every obstacle thrown their way. There are several scenes in which these women are undermined simply because they are women. This movie defies the stereotypes about a woman’s strength and determination, and it made me incredibly happy to see that. The director didn’t beat around the bush but instead faced the cliches head-on. 

I love how even when the world seemed like it was going to end, these sisters stuck together through the storm.

Family is an important theme throughout the movie. Whenever tragedy struck the sisters, it was their love for one another that kept them afloat. The characters felt like a real family with real issues, which kept the storyline interesting and relatable, I mean, as relatable as the Civil War period can be. 

In addition, the movie doesn’t sugarcoat issues and remains unpredictable, as long as you haven’t read the book. Jo, the main character, didn’t marry the person whom everyone expected she would because she didn’t feel the same way. The romantic in me wanted them to be together but it was the healthy and responsible thing to do even if it was painful for everyone involved. Meg didn’t marry into the perfect life, Amy didn’t become the world’s most famous painter, and Beth didn’t get to treasure her piano. It creates a bittersweet feel to the movie but also authentic which I always love to see. 

The cinematography in this movie was spot on, specifically, in regards to how the colors of the set, such as clothes, furniture, and even the weather, matched the mood of the characters. For example, if the characters had a joyful day, everything would be bright. Their outfits would be bright blue and pink hues and the sun shined through every window. But, if there was a devastating scene, everything would be gray. There would be clouds in the sky and no sunshine. The look of the film amplified the character’s emotions so I could empathize with them. 

I’d recommend this movie to anyone who loves a hearty romance while also someone who appreciates a good sob (seriously, bring tissues). I mean, this movie did receive six Academy Award Nominations, so what’s the harm in trying, right? This extraordinary movie welcomes all ages with open arms.