If you’ve ever been curious about Louisa May Alcott, the 2009 documentary “Louisa May Alcott: The Woman Behind Little Women” is a must-watch. This film dives deeply into Louisa’s life, using only primary sources to paint a vivid picture of who she truly was.
Harriet Reisen, who also penned the accompanying biography, crafted an incredibly detailed script, while Director Nancy Porter brought the story to life with her artistic direction.
The documentary traces Louisa May Alcott’s journey from birth to death in a way that feels both compelling and authentic. By the end, you might feel as if you’ve met the real-life Jo March.
The actors chosen to retell Louisa’s story do a fantastic job, particularly Elizabeth Marvel, who stands out as Louisa. Her portrayal captures Louisa’s energy and passion perfectly, making the historical figure come alive on screen.
The film also sheds light on the struggles Louisa and her family faced, including poverty, hardship, depression, and anxiety. The hardships endured by the Alcott family often surpassed those faced by the fictional March family.
Additionally, the documentary explores Louisa’s connections with renowned writers and thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Emerson served as a literary mentor, while Thoreau inspired her and her sisters to appreciate nature, undoubtedly influencing her writing.
One intriguing aspect of the film is the potential romance Louisa had with Ladislas Wisniewski, a young Polish man she met in Paris at the age of 33. The filmmakers and scholars present a convincing case for a romantic relationship, noting that Louisa likely drew inspiration from Laddie for the character of Laurie in “Little Women.”
Overall, this documentary is more than just informative. It’s artistically designed and plays out like an entertaining period drama. It’s surprising that no one has made a dramatic film about Louisa May Alcott, given her fascinating life and immense talent.
In summary, this film comes highly recommended for anyone interested in “Little Women,” Louisa May Alcott, literary history, or the Concord Transcendentalist movement. It’s a brilliant documentary well worth your time.
