30+ Films Featuring Strong Female Leads Like Little Women

Celebrating Women in Film

While most people are familiar with the story of Little Women, director Greta Gerwig managed to revitalize Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel with her acclaimed 2019 adaptation. Her work skillfully wove together familiar elements—like Jo’s (Saoirse Ronan) ill-fated romance with Laurie (Timothée Chalamet) and the complex relationship between Jo and Amy (Florence Pugh)—while integrating aspects of Alcott’s life, such as the challenges she encountered with her editor regarding the book’s commercial appeal. The result is a version of Little Women that feels both insightful and heartfelt, capturing the unbreakable bonds of the March sisters and their mother, Marmee. Fortunately, there are numerous other films that embody different aspects of the charm found in Little Women.

For anyone enchanted by the 2019 adaptation, starting with the 1994 version of Little Women is a must. While it lacks the modern touches of Gerwig’s version, it sticks closely to the source material and is one of the coziest films you’ll ever watch. The cast is stellar, featuring Winona Ryder, Kirsten Dunst, Claire Danes, Susan Sarandon, and Christian Bale.

Once you’ve enjoyed that adaptation, you can explore additional films—some historical and others not—that highlight female-driven narratives or flip the traditional period drama tropes on their head. Notable selections include the clever 2020 rendition of Jane Austen’s Emma, Gerwig’s Lady Bird, and the atmospheric 2011 adaptation of Jane Eyre. Below is a curated list of movies that Jo March would surely appreciate.

Historical Films with a Little Women Essence

Emma (2020)
The 2020 adaptation of Emma feels like a natural successor to Gerwig’s Little Women. Anya Taylor-Joy portrays Austen’s most meddlesome heroine in a version that is both sharper and more humorous than its predecessors, showcasing delightful chemistry between Emma and Knightley (Johnny Flynn).
Brooklyn (2015)
Brooklyn features Saoirse Ronan as Eilis, an Irish woman navigating her ambition and family ties in 1950s Brooklyn. As she falls for Tony (Emory Cohen) and the city itself, she faces the heart-wrenching decision between her old life and new love.
The Favourite (2018)
This film, which precedes Little Women, showcases a playful and irreverent take on historical drama. It presents Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) and her competition between two servants, played by Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz, in a tale filled with wit and dark humor.
The Personal History of David Copperfield (2019)
This refreshing take on Dickens’ classic stars Dev Patel as David, set against a lively Victorian backdrop. With direction by Armando Iannucci, the film is vibrant and funny, much like Little Women.
Love & Friendship (2016)
Adapted from Austen’s lesser-known Lady Susan, this film stars Kate Beckinsale as a widow eager to secure a wealthy match for her daughter. It combines stunning costumes with a sharp sense of humor, making it a delightful romp.

More Films to Enjoy if You Love Little Women

Colette (2018)
Becoming Jane (2007)
Pride and Prejudice (2005)
Sense and Sensibility (1995)
The Color Purple (1985)
Fried Green Tomatoes (1991)
Bright Star (2009)
To Walk Invisible (2016)
Belle (2013)
Far From the Madding Crowd (2015)
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society (2018)
Lady Bird (2017)
Miss Potter (2006)
Testament of Youth (2014)
Jane Eyre (2011)
A League of Their Own (1992)
Now and Then (1995)
A Quiet Passion (2016)
Marie Antoinette (2006)
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Steel Magnolias (1989)
Shirley (2020)
I Capture the Castle (2003)
Atonement (2007)
Persuasion (1995)
A Room with a View (1985)
Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

For those interested in exploring narratives that center around strong women, these films provide a wide array of stories that resonate with the themes of love, ambition, and sisterhood found in Little Women. Also, consider delving into this resource on pregnancy for more insights on family planning. And if you’re seeking more information on at-home insemination, check out this guide for a comprehensive overview.