Little Women

Little Women

Year: 1994

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: Gillian Armstrong

DramaRomanceFamily

In a poignant portrayal of sisterhood and self-discovery, four young women navigate the trials of growing up without their father, who's away at war. As they come of age under the guidance of their mother Marmee, each Little Woman - fiery Jo, elegant Meg, gentle Beth, and artistic Amy - must confront the complexities of independence, love, and virtue in a world where tradition and morality are tested.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Little Women (1994)
Trace every key event in Little Women (1994) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

The March Sisters' Christmas

The March sisters are faced with a gloomy Christmas as their father serves as a chaplain in the Civil War, leaving their mother, Marmee, to support the family. Despite their hardships, they still hope for a warm breakfast but are surprised when Marmee plans to help a poor family instead.

Christmas morning
2

Act of Kindness

The sisters decide to take their breakfast to the needy family, showcasing their generous spirits. As they leave, they encounter their wealthy neighbor Mr. Laurence and his grandson Laurie, marking the beginning of a friendship.

3

Jo and Laurie's Friendship

Jo meets Laurie at a dance where they quickly become best friends, and he becomes a beloved brother figure to the March sisters. They bond over amateur theatricals and Jo's aspirations of becoming a writer.

4

Amy's Struggles at School

Amy faces harsh discipline from her strict teacher and ultimately refuses to return to school. Marmee supports Amy's decision to continue her lessons at home, demonstrating the family's commitment to education.

5

Meg's Weekend at the Gardiners'

Meg visits the wealthier Gardiners and feels out of place in her simple dress. With her sisters' help to prepare for the occasion, she grapples with the pressures of social status and affording the luxuries enjoyed by her friends.

Weekend Gardiners' home
6

The Family Conflict

Tensions rise when Amy burns Jo's writings out of jealousy. After a furious confrontation, Jo refuses to forgive Amy, but tragedy strikes when Amy falls through the ice while skating, prompting Jo's remorse.

7

Grave News from the War

A telegram arrives reporting that Mr. March is gravely ill, prompting a frantic response from Marmee. Jo sells her hair to afford the train fare to reach their father, exemplifying her selflessness and love for her family.

8

Beth's Illness

While Marmee is away, Beth contracts scarlet fever, requiring the sisters to rally around her. Mr. Laurence's support and Marmee's return play pivotal roles in Beth's recovery, although her health remains fragile.

9

Meg and John's Engagement

After Beth's recovery, Meg and John Brooke announce their engagement to the family. Their love story unfolds amidst the challenges of the March family, culminating in a wedding three years later.

10

Jo's Ambitions and Laurie's Proposal

Jo's writing career begins to take off, but she feels unfulfilled. During a walk after Meg's wedding, Laurie proposes, but Jo declines, leading to a deep rift between them as Laurie travels to Europe.

11

Jo's New Life in New York

Seeking independence, Jo takes a governess position in New York City. There she meets Professor Bhaer, a kind yet critical man who challenges Jo's writing ambitions, emphasizing the importance of quality over money.

New York City
12

Beth's Death

Jo rushes home upon learning of Beth's terminal illness, managing to be at her side during her final moments. The death of Beth profoundly affects the March family, altering their dynamics and perspectives on life.

13

Amy's Romance in Europe

In Europe, Amy enjoys a budding romance with Fred Vaughn but is unsettled by Laurie's unexpected visit. Their relationship spirals as Amy navigates her feelings between adapting to spirited engagements and Laurie's desires.

Europe
14

Jo's Writing Triumph

Jo channels her grief into her writing, composing a novel dedicated to her sister Beth. Gaining the support of Professor Bhaer, she finally achieves success when her work is accepted for publication.

15

Unexpected Reunion and Proposal

When Laurie unexpectedly arrives with Amy as his wife, Jo experiences shock but gradually accepts their union. Later, Professor Bhaer proposes to Jo, marking a new beginning in her life as they find happiness together.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 19:25

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