May Xiong

Really wanted to like this adaptation. I love the 1994 version starring Wynona Rider. Always brings a warm glow to my heart when I watch it. This version was rated so highly, I expected to love it. The acting didn’t feel natural and casting seemed all wrong somehow. Actor playing Laurie never seemed to mature throughout, Marmee’s warmth didn’t feel genuine, actress playing Amy as her younger self wasn’t convincing, and Jo’s developing love story with the German professor came out of the blue - there was no chemistry there. The flashback scenes were also confusing and I don’t think it was an effective way to tell the story. Overall, highly disappointed and can’t understand why this movie is rated so highly. Stick to the classic 1994 version if you want a heartwarming movie with believable characters!