Little Women (1933) [Warner Archive Blu-ray review]

In 1933, George Cukor’s Little Women captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its timeless tale of female empowerment and sisterly bonds. Now, 90 years later, the film has been given a stunning HD facelift in a newly released Blu-ray from Warner Archive. This latest release is a must-have for fans of the classic film, offering crystal-clear visuals and a wealth of special features that delve into the making of this cinematic masterpiece.

Let’s talk about the 1933 version of Little Women

The March sisters are four very different personalities, each with their own unique struggles and triumphs. Meg, the eldest, is the practical and responsible one, often putting her own desires on hold to care for her family. Jo, the second eldest, is the impetuous and creative one, struggling to make a name for herself as a writer in a male-dominated society.

Amy, the youngest, is the most artistic and spoiled of the siblings, often finding herself in comical situations due to her temper and mischievous nature. And Beth, the shy and gentle one, is the heart of the family, providing a sense of calm and stability in the midst of the sisters’ various dramas.

The film’s portrayal of these characters is both authentic and relatable, offering a powerful feminist statement that resonates just as strongly today as it did when the film was first released. The sisters’ relationships with each other are complex and multifaceted, with moments of conflict and tension giving way to moments of tenderness and support. The film also explores the challenges faced by women during this time period, including societal expectations, financial struggles, and the constraints of gender roles.

Standing the test of time and multiple movie adaptations

Little Women is a film that has stood the test of time, and its timeless themes of sisterly love, female empowerment, and the struggles of growing up are just as relevant today as they were when the film was first released. The Blu-ray release from Warner Archive is a testament to the film’s enduring appeal, with stunning visuals and a wealth of special features that shed light on its production and cultural significance.

One of the most striking aspects of Little Women is its portrayal of women in a predominantly male-dominated society. The film’s four March sisters are strong, independent, and unapologetic, and their characters serve as a powerful counterpoint to the patriarchal attitudes of the time. This feminist subtext is just as relevant today as it was in 1933, and it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality that continues to this day.

In addition to its strong female characters, the film is also notable for its use of location and setting. The March family’s home is depicted as a cozy and welcoming space, with the nearby countryside providing a picturesque backdrop for many of the film’s most memorable scenes. The film’s cinematography is also worth mentioning, with sweeping shots of the Massachusetts countryside and intimate close-ups that convey the emotional depth of the characters.

Let’s talk about the Blu-ray

The first thing that struck me upon popping in the Little Women Blu-ray was the sheer beauty of the film’s visuals. The transfer is breathtaking, with vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the film’s 19th-century setting to life in stunning fashion. The cinematography, which was supervised by Cukor himself, is nothing short of breathtaking, with sweeping shots of the Massachusetts countryside and intimate close-ups that convey the emotional depth of the characters.

But the real star of the show is the film’s audio. The Blu-ray features a restored DTS-HD 2.0 mono track that immerses the viewer in the film’s lush musical score and dialogue-driven scenes. From the lively piano pieces that punctuate the film’s early scenes to the emotional showstoppers that bookend the story, the sound quality is nothing short of exceptional.

Little Women as a cultural touchstone

Since its release, Little Women has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless adaptations, parodies, and references in popular media. From the popular 1980s miniseries to the recent Broadway musical, the film’s legacy has endured, and its themes continue to resonate with audiences around the world.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in classic Hollywood films, and Little Women is at the forefront of this revival. With its timeless themes and stunning visuals, the film is a must-see for fans of classic cinema, and the Blu-ray release from Warner Archive is the perfect way to experience it in high definition.

Little Women (1933) is now available from the Warner Archive Collection. Purchase your own copy at MovieZyng!