The flaws are easily forgiven in this beautiful version of Louisa May Alcott's novel. A stirring look at life in New England during the Civil War; Little Women is a triumph for all involved. We follow one family as they split into the world; ending up with the most independent; the outspoken Jo (Winona Ryder). This time around; the dramatics and conclusions fall into place a little too well; instead of finding life's little accidents along the way. Everyone now looks a bit too cute and oh; so nice. As the matron; Marmee; Susan Sarandon kicks the film into a modern tone; creating a movie alive with a great feminine sprit. Kirsten Dunst (Interview with the Vampire) has another showy role. The young ensemble cast cannot be faulted; with Ryder beginning the movie in a role akin to light comedy and crescendoing to a triumphant end worthy of an Oscar. --Doug Thomas