Watch Little Women (2017)

Based on Louisa May Alcott's timeless novel, Little Women is a heartwarming family drama that follows the lives and coming-of-age of four sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, during the American Civil War era. Produced by BBC One and PBS Masterpiece, this adaptation of the classic story features an ensemble cast of talented actors, including rising star Maya Hawke in her debut role as Jo March.

Set in the late 1860s, the story begins as the four sisters live in genteel poverty with their mother Marmee (Emily Watson) in a small Massachusetts town while their father is away serving in the Union Army. The sisters are each unique in their own way: Meg (Willa Fitzgerald) is the eldest and the most practical, Jo (Maya Hawke) is the tomboyish aspiring writer, Beth (Annes Elwy) is the kind and gentle one who loves music, and Amy (Kathryn Newton) is the artistic and ambitious youngest sister.

As the sisters navigate their way through adolescence, they face a myriad of challenges and experiences that shape their lives, from falling in love to dealing with sickness and tragedy. Along the way, they also find comfort and support in each other, and learn the true meaning of family and sisterhood.

The show is set against the backdrop of the Civil War, which serves as a constant reminder of the hardships and sacrifices that the characters face. From rationing food to volunteering at the local hospital, the sisters do their part to contribute to the war effort while also trying to maintain a sense of normalcy in their daily lives.

At the heart of the story is Jo, whose fierce independence and determination to succeed as a writer often puts her at odds with societal expectations of women in that era. Her relationship with the charming and enigmatic Laurie (Jonah Hauer-King), the young man next door, is also a central plot point in the story.

One of the key themes of the show is the importance of sisterhood and the bonds that hold families together. The sisters may bicker and disagree, but ultimately their love for each other is what gets them through even the toughest of times.

The show also explores themes of gender roles and societal expectations, particularly as they relate to women in that time period. Through Jo's struggles as a female writer and Meg's struggles with conforming to traditional notions of femininity, the show highlights the limitations that women faced in terms of their career and personal aspirations.

Overall, Little Women is a beautifully crafted adaptation of a beloved novel, featuring strong performances and a touching portrayal of family dynamics and sisterhood. It is a heartwarming and poignant story that resonates with audiences of all ages, and is a must-watch for anyone who loves classic literature, period dramas, or simply a good family story.

Little Women (2017) is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between December 26, 2017 and on BBC OnePBS Masterpiece