Period drama enthusiasts hunting for their next weekend binge-watch need look no further than this captivating three-part miniseries featuring a major Netflix sensation.
Based on Louisa May Alcott's beloved 19th-century masterpiece, which has been celebrated as essential reading across generations, Little Women can be streamed on ITVX.
The story centres on four March sisters navigating the complexities of adolescence during the turbulent American Civil War era.
Under the nurturing influence of their mother, Marmee, the siblings Jo, Beth, Meg and Amy mature from children into young women whilst their nation undergoes its own dramatic transformation.
Penned by Heidi Thomas and helmed by director Vanessa Caswill, this miniseries originally graced BBC One screens during the 2017 Christmas season.
Amongst numerous film and television interpretations, this particular adaptation distinguishes itself through its exceptional ensemble cast.
Maya Hawke, offspring of Hollywood icons Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, takes on the role of Jo March, alongside Willa Fitzgerald (Meg), Kathryn Newton (Amy) and Annes Elwy (Beth).
Hawke's portrayal garnered tremendous acclaim, with audiences dubbing her a "show-stopper".
One admirer wrote on IMDb: "The real show stopper was Maya Hawke as Jo. She was everything that is Jo for me. It was like she had leaped from the page. I loved her on Stranger Things and have been a fan of her mother and father ever since I was a child.", reports the Manchester Evening News.
Someone else praised: "If you're a fan of the book, you'll enjoy this series. I've read the book several times, and was glad I chose this version of Little Women to watch over my holiday break."
Another viewer enthused: "I've enjoyed every adaptation of Little Women that I've seen, and this was no exception. As someone who enjoys comparing adaptations across time, I find the story told in this newer style of acting, directing, music etc. A valuable addition to the collection."
Critics also lauded the drama, with an 81% Rotten Tomatoes score from 37 reviews. Their consensus reads: "Heidi Thomas' Little Women miniseries offers a charming, intimate, and decidedly loyal adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's original story."
The Telegraph also chimed in with praise, stating: "Little Women was a delight from start to finish - a poignant, funny version of Louisa May Alcott's 1869 novel which made the four March sisters seem like both exciting new creations and old friends."
Newsday also gave a glowing review, stating: "A luminous adaptation, with Hawke as one more memorable 'Jo' in a long and glorious line of them."
Just two years later, Irish actress Saoirse Ronan took on the role of Jo March and quickly became a strong contender for 'the best Jo portrayal' to date.
The 2019 version also received high praise, bagging an Oscar for Best Costume Design. It was also in the running for the Best Picture award, as well as nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score, Best Supporting Actress for Florence Pugh, and Best Leading Actress for Ronan.
Those eager to compare the different versions can stream the 2019 film on Netflix.
Little Women is streaming now on ITVX
2025-12-06T07:13:38Z