Little Women

Growing up, we watched this movie at least once a week. I still watch it several times a month. No matter where I am in the world, this movie brings me home. Sarandon plays the mother we all wish we had. Organized, efficient, and extremely willing to let her four girls become whoever they wish to be, while gently guiding them away from superficial attributes. Alvarado plays the eldest daughter, Meg. She brings a beauty and quiet calm to the role. Ryder plays Jo. The girl we all empathize with in her lifelong quest to just fit in. She feels completely out of place until she eventually realizes that home truly is where your heart lies. Danes plays Beth in a way that is brave and strong. Other versions of the film relegate Beth to a non-role. Someone who is just there until she dies. But Danes brings a strength to Beth that embodies the raging against the dying of the light, in a way. Suddenly we see that it is Beth that holds the girls together, not Jo or their mother. Dunst plays Amy in a way that we don't mind her youthful vanity. Mathis plays Amy briefly, but helps us to see the woman that we all hoped she would become. This is, by far, my favorite version of this film.

This movie, and the book it came from, have always been one of my go to favorites! It always reminds me that, as long as we are true to ourselves, we will eventually find the right path for our lives. Also, that the life of wealth is not necessarily better than any other life, just different. This version's cast does Louisa May Alcott credit, truly bringing her women to life. Love it!

This is the best possible movie version of my favorite classic novel. I'm delighted by the portrayals and can excuse the condensing because of how beautifully the heart of the story is told. I will read and then watch this again and again through every season of life.