Greta Gerwig

B (Good).

I went in expecting a comedy, and was disappointed by how underwhelming the humor was. I guess if you go in expecting a whimsical drama, it might seem better. I mean, it's a good movie, but it's not mind-blowing.

(Dec. 2023)

I expected a fun movie that is trying to push Barbie into the 21st Century. Reading the shooting script, the story hangs on the plot that relies on noise that is dressed as comedy. Aspects of this are fun but the message I come away with is woman power exists in Barbie Land, an imaginary place that continues to be a fantasy.

But every change needs a beginning, and I guess this is a good place as any to start.

Notable that there were three major conflicts resolved not by one character vanquishing another, but antagonists reflecting upon their past behavior and inner beliefs to independently reach a change in intent. Not "can't we all just get along?" so much as "wait, what is it I truly want, and what are the actual impediments to getting there?".

1- The rival Ken factions
2- Barbie(s) and Ken(s)
3- Barbieland and Real World

Excellent adaptation of the classic book. Slightly confusing at first as the action switches between episodes in 'Good Wives' and 'Little Women', seven years apart. But although Amy struggles to look twelve in the flashback sections, Jo does well, and Meg does brilliantly. Meryl Streep is superb as Aunt March, and Laura Dern makes a very believable Marmee. Jo - Saoirse Ronan - is the main character, her writing struggles and successes packaging this adaptation in a more modern feel despite show more being set authentically in its era.

Very highly recommended, so long as you don't mind some significant deviations from the classic books.

Longer review here: https://suesdvdreviews.blogspot.com/2020/10/little-women-saoirse-ronan.html show less