November to Remember: The 1994 historical drama Little Women is a great piece of feminist cinema

Ever since the book Little Women by Louisa May Alcott was released in 1868, there have been several adaptations of the coming-of-age drama. Earlier adaptations of the book were directed by George Cukor and Mervyn LeRoy and starred some great performers like Katharine Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor. One of the best adaptations is the 1994 movie of the same name for various reasons. 

Directed by Gillian Armstrong, the film stars Winona Ryder, Gabriel Byrne, Trini Alvarado, Samantha Mathis, Kirsten Dunst, Claire Danes, Christian Bale, Eric Stoltz, Mary Wickes and Susan Sarandon. The highlights of the film are not great storytelling, directions and costumes but also how it brought female performers to the forefront in the late 20th century with its feminist film. The film also featured several women in behind-the-scene roles. The drama opens with a Christmas scene at the household of March sisters Amy (Kirsten Dunst), Jo (Winona Ryder), Meg (Trini Alvardo) and Beth (Claire Danes) and their mother (Susan Sarandon as Marmee). It continues to showcase their journey through triumphs and sorrows and narrates the ordeal of women. But the heart of this charming story remains the unbreakable bonds of the March sisters and their mother. 

The film transports you to the lives of these characters and their timeless struggles, making it all relatable, even to modern and contemporary audiences. It beautifully and boldly portrays the issues of poverty, sexism and classism. Despite all these issues, the March sisters are brought up to be outspoken and bold. They are taught about equality for all and compassion, and the girls remain faithful and follow the teachings of their parents. Many households can see themselves in the March sisters as they deal with grief and loss and revel in the reflection of the love in their own lives.  

A unique movie, it is a visual treat and can be made a tradition to watch the drama on a lazy Christmas or New Year's day with your family. The makers have paid attention to even minute details with its historically accurate pieces like passing down the costumes to younger sisters. One of the other interesting aspects it explores is the rare female-male friendships without any sexual undertone and just a tale of a selfless relationship between Winona Ryder and Christian Bale. 

It showcases the great performances of a stellar cast. Trini Alvarado perfectly embodies and personifies the eldest sibling who is always angry at the drama of younger sisters while also shouldering some responsibility in difficult times and bringing happiness to the other annoying younger sisters. Kirsten Dunst and Claire Danes wow you with their impeccable performances despite their young ages to the point that you could unfairly judge Dunst as annoying and Danes to be too quiet. Kirsten Duns as Amy would make you nostalgic as you think of the times when you have thought of murdering your troublesome younger sibling. Winona Ryder as Jo proves her forte as an outspoken, headstrong, yet compassionate and sensitive person. 

The fifth feature film adaptation of the classic story was a success at the box office. It ranked sixth at the box office on the opening weekend and earned over $50 million. The film received three Oscar nominations - Best Actress (Ryder), Best Costume Design, and Best Original Score.