My thoughts on Greta Gerwig's 2019 adaptation of the classical and beloved novel 'Little Women'
So heart-warming, so moving, so loveable.
Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh are vibrant, Laura Dern is calm, maternal and warming, Emma Watson is Emma Watson in the very best of ways and Eliza Scalen is quiet, soft and innocent. Not to mention Timothee Chalamet doing what Timothee Chalamet does best: brooding one minute and delivering impassioned monologues the next whilst looking oh so very pretty. Oh, and Meryl Streep is quietly hilarious and maintains an air of authority that comes with being such a prestigious performer.
Gerwig is completely on form here, her dialogue is snappy, sharp and as captivating as ever. Her direction is extremely strong, the way in which she blocks characters and moves within spaces enables the film to feel focused whilst maintaining the frantic energy that makes this film so loveable.
"It feels modern and refreshing"
The costume design is stunning, and whilst the colour palette is perhaps not the most extensive (restricted by the confines of a naturalistic film set during the American civil war) the pops of colour we are occasionally shown are all the more visually appealing. This is especially prevalent in relation to the character of Amy, particularly when we follow her to Paris.
I love every single one of Gerwig's films I have seen and this no exception. This film feels like a harmonious blend of established stars and the new generation of standout talent. It feels modern and refreshing, despite being based upon a story we have seen adapted numerous times before. It is a shining example of how the artistic voice of a director is crucial when delivering a new take on a classic tale. Gerwig maintains her charm, weaves in her social commentary and leaves her mark on a story loved by so many. I can't wait for what she does next. 8/10.