“Little Women” is based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott. It’s 1861 and the Marche family live in Concord, Mass and although the “War to Free the Slaves” is being fought far from home, it seems very close. Papa has enlisted in the Union army as a chaplain, being too old for combat. Meg (Meredith Baxter-Birney), the eldest, is very much a lady and very proper. Jo (Susan Dey) is a headstrong, impertinent tomboy who longs to be a famous writer. Beth (Eve Plumb) is a sickly girl who is always the helper. Amy (Ann Dusenberry) is the “baby” of the family who wants to be grown up and be taken seriously. Then there’s Mamie (Dorothy Mc Guire). She is the amazing matriarch of the family who tries to keep life as normal as possible while the war rages on.

Life is hard in the 1800s and with life progressing and things constantly changing, we share the hardships and celebrations of one New England family. “Little Women” is a fabulous family movie. The acting is great and the characters really draw you into their lives and the story lines. The family values shared by the Marche family are to be lauded and learned by all. This DVD is awarded our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal and five Doves, our highest rating. It should be noted that young viewers may find it a bit slow moving.