The classic American novel Little Women by Louisa May Alcott has been a source of inspiration for women since it was published in 1868. This story of four sisters living in Massachusetts during the Civil War is a tale of resiliency and sisterhood as it follows the March sisters who experience both true love and heartbreak.
Movies based on this novel have been made numerous times over the years, but the most recent adaptation is the most timely. At a time when women in this country are still fighting to be treated equally to men and are also still fighting to earn the same amount as men, this movie is important in shining a light on women taking ownership of their own work and standing up for the things that they believe in.
This movie is also an incredible portrayal of how different feminism is for each and every woman in this country. Jo’s idea of feminism is remaining independent and making a life for herself while Meg’s idea of feminism is doing what makes her happy, which is staying home to take care of her children. I think this is an important message for women everywhere; just because your idea of happiness is different from someone else’s, doesn’t mean they are incorrect.
Although this movie deals a lot with the idea of love and romance, it made sure not to define the women by their relationships. Their love lives are simply a part of their story; they do not overshadow the other parts of their personalities.
After seeing Little Women I left the movie theatre feeling both inspired and optimistic about not only my own future, but also about the future of all hard working women in this country. If you are in need of an uplifting story about hard work and sisterhood, I highly recommend seeing this movie.