Whispering Smith (1948) vs. Poldark (2015-19) // The 'Triangle of Regret' Trope

Howdy, partners!

There’s this popular trope in stories--I’m sure you've heard of it--called ‘The Love Triangle’. There can be any combination of genders but for example let's talk about it when a woman is being pursued by two different men (This post is not a throw down--I don't know if this is a real phrase but we're going with it--of that trope. That’s for another day...which may be an appreciation post…). A lesser known trope is the sequel to 'The Love Triangle'. I don’t know if it has a name, but let’s call it the ‘Triangle of Regret’, keeping with the math themes, you know.

Using our example, 'Love Triangle' stories end when the woman chooses one of the men. The sequel is usually when we never saw the decision process, but the woman chose one of the men and is now unhappily married and that comes to the surface when the other dude comes back to town.

(The Great Gatsby is famous, y’all. That is a little bit different, but you get the point?)

Long story short, I DETEST this trope. It lacks honor and justice and dignity. It portrays women to be unable to read their own hearts. It breaks promises and puts suspicion between friends. It’s all around a gnarly thing.

Which is why we’re going to talk about it today.

As an aspiring writer, I’m always trying to figure out what makes stories lovable for me and what doesn’t. Therefore we’re doing a deep dive into some pros and cons of this trope through some examples. Because all tropes are subjective and even if I dislike it majorly, I can usually find a version that works for me.

Besides the aforementioned Fitzgerald novel, what comes to mind when I think of this trope are two very different stories. They employ the same trope but the notable difference is GENRE. Technically both are period dramas, but one is a British saga and the other is a western. We're looking at Whispering Smith (1948) vs. Poldark (2015-19). 

(A disclaimer is that I’ve only seen each story once. So pardon any errors in the plot or whatnot. It could be that I’m majorly misinterpreting this, but I don’t claim it to be accurate, only my interpretation.)

(Because I figure these stories generally draw different crowds (please correct me if I'm not the only one to have seen both), this will be mainly spoiler-free. I will talk about the progress each character makes but without the context so you don't know what happens. Not the plot but the development of the characters)

Whispering Smith (1948) vs. Poldark (2015-19):

Whispering Smith is about suspicious happenings on a railroad so a marshall/detective comes to determine the causes and soon begins to think that one of his old best friends is involved. Poldark (the part that I want to talk about) is about a man returning from the losing side of the war and trying to fix his home that's in shambles while fighting against injustices and his past feelings.

Doesn't seem that similar, right? The biggest differences are when it comes to the plot, but those dwindle away when it comes to the characters and their relationships with each other. 

Luke Smith vs. Ross Poldark:

Similarities: Titular character. Have been away for a while and return at the beginning of the story. Doesn’t ‘get "the girl"’.

That's where the similarities end.

I should state (and I probably will more than once) I do NOT like Ross. Sometimes he's tolerable but never likable to me. I do not like his decisions--and he makes a whole lot of bad ones. It's good to have flawed characters so we can see them grow, I support that 100%. But growth? Ross hasn't heard of that. Just when you think he's finally learned his lesson, the end of season 2 is a DISASTER. But we're not going to talk about that.

(But MC, why did you watch ALL 5 seasons if you didn't like the main character? One of my friends told me the whole story of seasons 1-4 so I had things I really wanted to see with certain characters. Namely: Verity, Dwight, Francis, Caroline, Drake, Sam, Morwenna, Geoffrey Charles, and Cecily. Please, if anyone loves Ross, I would love to hear all the reasons why! I'm not trying to slam a favorite character. I'm just making notes about what works for me and what doesn't.)

Luke, on the other hand, is precious. You can tell he's been through a lot and you respect his gentleness all the more for that. He has an air of hardship about him but doesn't complain or let that alter his decisions.

Murray Sinclair vs. Francis Poldark:

Similarities: ‘Gets "the girl"’ but feels that "the girl" in question regrets that. Tangles with the wrong type of person.

Both of these guys are fascinating. There's a lot of struggling with insecurities. Their characters explore trying to convince themselves that it's all in their head. Should they give over to the fact that their triumph has ironically been their downfall? Is it a downward spiral of bad decisions in a negative character arc? A cautionary story? There's lots of thinking on the human condition prompted by this.

Marian Sinclair vs. Elizabeth Poldark:

Similarities: Feels that she chose the wrong man when the other love of her life returns.

I don't like either of them so there's not much to say. It's the biggest fault of this trope that gets used every time, so can writers FOR ONCE not make the gal flaky?

(Can we talk about how CONFUSING it is to have Robert Preston always be yelling "Marian!" and then Shirley Jones doesn't appear? I've probably just watched The Music Man too much...)

The relationship dynamics:

So, MC, you've talked about how you don't like the decisions Ross makes but, doesn't Francis make many of the same decisions? He's not exactly what you would call an upstanding citizen. Sure, they both make bad decisions but I have a line to cross when it comes to certain decisions (like gambling vs. adultery). But why I like one character over the other is the REASON they make those decisions. 

Ross makes his decisions because he is full of confidence that quickly turns to arrogance. He figures he knows what justice is, that he can do things by himself, that some people are too stuck up for their own good (pot calling the kettle black?). 

Whereas, Francis makes his decisions because he's lacking confidence and faith in himself. He sees himself as the second, unwanted choice. He feels that his father would've preferred Ross for a son. The poor guy is miserable and doesn't see a way out so he lets life get away from him. Because he thinks nothing he's going to do is going to make Elizabeth love him. The poor guy! My heart melts for him! I relate to him so much (Fine, you caught me, I'm biased because I relate to Francis. I have a post planned for those similarities but I want to watch the show again before I make those points. I'm trying to get my sister to watch because I know she's going to be in love with Dwight and Drake. Who isn't?) That doesn't pardon what Francis does, but it makes it more human to me (both Ross and Francis have issues with consent. Though Francis knows to back off and Ross doesn't).

(It should be noted that the 'romance' issues in Poldark do not end with the three peeps I've been talking about. It's not even a triangle as much as a star. It's really messy. So we can't really blame Francis, but we can blame Ross. Not that that's important to what I'm talking about, BUT it shows that it has more than just the 'Triangle of Regret' trope. That's only the starting position)

You see, I don't like characters who are brash and full of bravado. I like the quiet ones with deeper things going on under the surface. The ones you only see 'whispers' of their thoughts...which leads us to Whispering Smith. 

Luke is confident in his instincts--that's what has got him his job--but he's not brash about it. He is patient and kind. He shows the girl in question (Marian) that he cares but respects the decisions made. He's trying to do the right thing and make sure people don't get hurt.

Just LOOK at the posture each of these characters exhibits, as that tells a lot. I can't stand Ross's smirk, ugh.

Unlike Francis, Murray turns more to anger as opposed to sorrow. He blames Luke even though Luke has done nothing wrong. It's more of revenge instead of hopelessness. I don't really feel anything for him besides pity and regret. Francis, on the other hand, puts work in and realizes that he can't let others' opinions get the best of him. He has to be the best person he can, and the best father he can be. Humility is one of the most attractive traits to me. (Oh, when you get into the layers of bravado to hide insecurities I will also melt at that, but none of those characters have that. Sorry, tangent.)

So, who wins this face off? Which do I like better, Whispering Smith or Poldark? Well, neither. I think it would be best if elements of the two were combined. I want Luke Smith and Francis Poldark to work together. But why don't I like either? I don't like Poldark because of the aforementioned Ross problem, and I don't like Whispering Smith because I can't. stand. the. ending. ack.

Redemption is very important to me (a post on that coming soon, I hope...). Whispering Smith decides that one character can't be redeemed where I think he had a chance. Poldark decides one character is automatically redeemed (unfairly!) because he's the main character, and I don't think enough work is ever put in. And yes, I don't like how things end in Poldark, either, but it seems more like a BBC/Masterpiece shock factor thing which I am used to by now. 

Maybe each works with respect to the antagonist/rival? Maybe I wouldn’t love Francis so much if Ross was decent and I wouldn’t love Luke so much if Murray had it together?

But I think not. I think I would still love Luke and Francis more. And I think it would be cool to have them together. So if I were ever to write this trope I would do three things:

-Have the woman be confident in her decision.

-Have EVERYONE, namely the two hopefuls, be respectful of her decision.

-Reduce the amount of bluster and show a human side of everything.

You’re probably all wondering where this came from. Well, I’ve been swearing that I’ll do something fun for Legends of Western Cinema Week for YEARS and this year I finally bit the bullet. Thanks to Olivia, Hamlette, and Heidi for hosting this again!

Today is the last day! So get on over to the hosts posts (mwahaha, that rhymes) to check out the tags, games, and giveaways!

(Thanks to Hamlette again because I found a lot of the Whispering Smith photos I used on her blog!)

Thanks for reading! Yes, I compare really strange things, but is this as bizarre as my Sense and Sensibility vs. Frozen post? What do you guys think of this trope? Do you have a version you like? Do you like a louder main character or a quieter one? Has anyone else seen both Whispering Smith and Poldark? Is 'the Triangle of Regret' a good name?

Happy trails!

Chloe the MovieCritic

March 2021 Book Reviews: Featuring a Governess, a Flowery Horse, and a Raccoon who is a Boy’s Best Friend

Hello, everyone!

How are you all doing? Everything is feeling a bit surreal to me as yesterday marked one year since I’ve been anywhere in society. It was my last “normal” day before all of this. I know that other people have been out and about a bit, but things have been different for my family based on all of the risks associated. I can’t believe it and just want to check in on all of you.

Don’t feel bad for me, I’m very satisfied with all of the choices my family has made in the last year! Now with family members already getting first shots we’re getting closer. That isn’t what I’m here to talk about, but I thought I’d commemorate it in someway.

No, I’m here to talk about books! One of my goals this year is to review at least one book a month because even though my little corner of the web is called Movies Meet Their Match, I’m an avid reader! I don’t celebrate that enough and this is to change that. I’ll be giving you reviews of some books that I’ve wanted to talk about for awhile. When I say awhile, I’m not kidding. None of these have anything to do with March, that was just my way of organizing. Of all of these books the most recent one that I read was back in December of 2019....What can I say, I’m slow? Fear not, I remember them (and have copious notes) to provide you with ample information.

As a side note, what do all of you think of the title for this post? My brain tends to work only in strictly organized (aka boring) ways making my titles very official but not engaging. Inspired by Sarah Seele’s awesome blog post titles I decided to go informal and change it up! If you like my usual structure then don’t worry, this is a rare occurrence and you can find all of my reviews listed HERE like always.

Enough talk, let’s do this!

My guarantee: On ALL of my reviews there are NO spoilers unless I give you warning. All three of these book reviews are spoiler free!


Review #1:

Agnes Grey - by Anne Brontë:

‘...and indeed I was so fearful of being charged with childish frivolity, or stupid insensibility, that I carefully kept most of my bright ideas, and cheering notions to myself, well knowing they could not be appreciated.’

Agnes Grey is trying to make a living for herself by the only means that she knows how: being a governess. Used to being treated like family at home, she is unprepared for the separation she feels having to teach children who are horribly spoiled and don’t listen to her. She hopes for a better life ahead where she is understood and appreciated. What will she learn on her road in life and will it take her to better places?
Genres: Drama, Period Drama.
Characters: 7. There aren’t many to speak for, but most of them are shown to be rude! Or unmemorable, but that could just be based on how long ago I read this. There are exceptions, who are my favorites, of course.
My favorites:
Agnes Grey: I was texting my sister today and we were making connections of how much we are both like Agnes in different ways. She is a very emotional heroine, but I love her kindness that is such a contrast to the way she is treated.

“The best way to enjoy yourself is to do what is right, and hate nobody.”

Nancy Brown: Such a wonderful lady! I want to sit and soak up everything she says. She has had her share of troubles in life, but her faith is glorious.

“An’ so it is, Miss Grey, ‘a soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievious words stir up anger.’ It isn’t only in thence you speak to, but in yourself.”

Words/Writing style: 10. While I thought that this book was really dull, the writing was lovely! It is told in first person, which is so rare for the time frame when this was written! I mean, she wasn’t the first Brontë sister to use it. This book has so much wisdom just in Agnes’s thoughts and conversations. That was such a redeeming factor for me. Just a note, that in all of the quotes that I use, I’m copying out of my edition of the book so it might look wrong, but it is British spelling.
Quotability: 8. This opening line is my favorite and I think of it often!:

‘All true histories contain instruction; though, in some the treasure may be hard to find, and when found so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of racking he nut.’

Content: 10. People are unpleasant, mean, and rude to each other, but I wouldn’t call them cruel. Well, unless it is the one little boy when it comes to animals. They are shown to not be desirable friends, though, so it isn’t encouraged to emulate them (Sorry, I don’t know if you guys have noticed, but I’m killing it on these word choices today! Usually my vocabulary is so small!).
Originality: 5. This may seem harsh, but “governess meets mean employers” isn’t new to me in anyway. It also involves a trope that isn’t my favorite. There’s nothing wrong with it, and in real life it’s perfectly fine, but it always seems weird to me, personally.

“...but I cannot pretend to judge of a man’s character by a single, cursory glance at his face.”

(I did like this line a lot.)

Notes: There is a reference to Dogberry from Much Ado About Nothing!
Good For: Classics lovers, teachers.
Age Range: It would be fine for any age. It is not the most interesting book in the world and kids might get bored easily (am I admitting that I’m a kid at heart? Maybe...), but it might teach them lessons like, don’t pull pranks on your teachers because it upsets them a lot.

‘A carriage and a lady’s-maid were great conveniences; but, thank Heaven, she had feet to carry her and hands to minister to her own necessities.’

Overall Score: 7.5.
Worth reading?: Yes, for the enchanting writing alone!
Will I read again?: Nope. With so many books in the world I don’t see myself revisiting this. It was fairly short, which was nice! Based on the writing I now want to read more books by Anne Brontë, though!
Bonus thoughts:
I personally thought that this rather dull and tedious (if anyone gets why that is so funny based on what I’ve said in this review then you get an award) but it wasn’t bad. The story wasn’t flashy, and it was just someone speaking from experience of the injustice shown to governesses in a household as they were between family and servants. It leans into the unfairness of treating servants to roughly in the first place! We are all human beings who deserve respect.



Review #2:

Dandelion: The Extraordinary Life of a Misfit - by Sheelagh Mawe:

Dandelion doesn’t know it, but though she lives in Ireland, she comes from Arabian ancestry. She reflects that with her fiery spirit. All she knows is that she doesn’t want to be like other horses, but run free. If she were to escape her confines, where would she go? Loneliness is out in the world, so will she just be better to allow the humans to ride her?

“Life is always just, don’t you see? It gives precisely what you expect. No more and no less.”

Genres: I would call this Fiction, but the labels I can find for it are Nonfiction and Spirituality. I understand the second one, but the first isn’t fitting.
Characters: 7. There are so few, and they all have pretty typical roles. The rebel, the mentor, etc.
My favorites:
Timothy: After what I just said about the characters being typical, is my favorite one of the biggest stereotypes? Well, yeah. He was great, okay?

‘“Life is simple, me darling,” Timothy said firmly. “It only becomes difficult when you fail to understand that whatever you think about you become.”’

The human whose name I can’t remember: I am chagrined that I can’t remember his name because he was the best in the whole thing. He was the most original because he had so many struggles yet was very thoughtful and gentle.
Dandelion: Her growth was impressive. I like the element that this takes place in the real world so horses can talk to each other but they can’t talk to humans.
Words/Writing style: 7. The really weird thing about this book is that in every chapter it told you what was going to happen in the next chapter, therefore there wasn’t a lot of suspense. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, I just haven’t seen it before and was a little confused by it. I don’t believe that there were any bad words.

‘Enchanted Dandelion was at the way her world changed when she saw it at speed. All the things she had known as whole, defined and stationary, could be changed to a blur of unfamiliar blues and greens and browns--the earth merging with the sky and the other way around--by the simple fact of her own amazing speed.’

(This is a lovely description besides how it starts out talking like Yoda would...)

Quotability: N/A. I’m coming to find that this category is a hard one. I haven’t had anyone to say the lines to, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t good ones. I didn’t believe a word of the blarney, haha!
Content: 9. There is death and some pain, but that’s it.
Originality: 8. With all of the characters being so easy to read I thought that I knew where this was going. Turns out that I didn’t. The ending surprised me a lot!
Good For: Horse lovers. This book does tackle storytelling through a more spiritual perspective. It’s not tied to any religion, but really focuses on inner power and decisions. As the description on Goodreads says: “An uplifting story about finding your purpose and harnessing life's magic.”
Age Range: I think younger readers would appreciate the story while older readers would look for the lesson. As rare as this happens as it is usually the other way around, it might be not as interesting on older readers because of that. It really depends on the person and what they are looking to get from it!
Overall Score: 8.
Worth reading?: Sure! It was very cute. The ending was particularly worthwhile.
Will I read again?: You know what, I think I might. One day if I just need a little motivation then I might sit down to read this again. It’s very short so it wouldn’t be a lot of trouble!
Bonus thoughts:
This wasn’t anything exceptional, but I liked it! It was sweet and made me consider a new perspective.



Review #3:

Rascal - by Sterling North:

A boy raises a pet raccoon and they go on little adventures while the seasons change. Will they stay safe and out of trouble in their changing lives?
Genre: Memoir.
Characters: 8. There aren’t many to speak for, but they are cute!
My favorites:
Sterling: I love how much he loves his raccoon! It’s so sweet.
Sterling’s dad: He seemed very dependable.
Rascal: This fuzzy little creature has such a mischievous personality!
Words/Writing style: 9. No bad words to mention! I really loved how there is no denying it being a memoir and Sterling North tells us that these are stories from his childhood and not something that happened to someone else. As I wrote down, the wording is beautiful! Check out this:

‘I was still in that uncritical stage that allows for the enjoyment of poetry.

We came upon Lake Superior with similar astonishment and wild surmise---an entire ocean stretching far beyond the horizon, as though a sapphire half as big as the visible sky had been set among granite cliffs and northern pines.’

Quotability: N/A in this case.
Awards: 8: Newbery Medal Nominee (1964), Lewis Carroll Shelf Award, Dutton Animal Book Award (1963), Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award (1965), Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award (1966), William Allen White Children's Book Award (1966), Aurianne Award (1965), Oklahoma Sequoyah Award (1966). (Source)
Content: 8. There is talk about war, but it’s not too gory. There are animals who fight and get hurt.
Originality: 8. My description of this book sounds simple and that’s because it is. That is where the charm lies! There are bittersweet parts wrapped around happy golden summer days and it overall is darling.

‘Then all three of us went running out to the very tip of the point as though we were a little mad with happiness---as indeed we were.’

Good For: People who like animal stories or have pets.
Age Range: I would say that this is great for younger kids. Parts might get a little intense emotionally (or maybe that’s just me...) but I would say those 10 and up would be good.

‘August is an intemperate month in any case when emotions go up with the thermometer.’

Overall Score: 8. 
Worth reading?: Yeah! I’d seen it on the self of my library for a long time and I was happy to finally check it off as read.
Will I read again?: Yes, I think I will! I want to read it out loud to someone now. Maybe if I ever get back into babysitting?
Bonus thoughts:
There’s not much to add. It’s clearly what it is and doesn’t try to hide. It was short and easy to read while not lacking in emotions.




And I’m done for the day! Thank you so much for reading! Please tell me how you are all doing. Have you read any of these? What are you favorite animal books that aren’t the usual about dogs? Have you ever read a book that you should like based on multiple factors, but you just found it boring?

Wishing you all the best of health and happiness,

MovieCritic

Movie Review (& Defense Of): Little Women (2019)

Hello, everyone!

Today Iʼm reviewing for you one of the last movies that I saw in a theater. Back in the old days, remember? I first saw this on January 8th 2020. That sure seems like a long time ago! Since this film is based on a book and there are already several adaptations I would usually compare and contrast all of them. I will do that someday in one massive post, but today Iʼm going for something a little different. I hope you enjoy!

My guarantee: On ALL of my reviews there are NO spoilers unless I give you warning. This is spoiler free in its entirety! Through and through!

Little Women (2019):

Based on: Little Women - by Louisa May Alcott.

Set in the United States during and after the Civil War this film explores the family and relationships of four sisters. Jo is trying to sell stories to send money home to her family and we see how it all lead up to there through a split timeline. Broken hearts, fights, sickness, and more. Before all of this were four girls: Meg took care of people, Jo wrote, Beth played the piano, and Amy painted. The lives of the little women are constantly changing but at the base are they all who they were in the beginning? How do feelings grow and change with the world around them?

“Just because my dreams are different from yours doesnʼt mean theyʼre unimportant.” 

Genres: Romance, Drama, Period Drama,

Length: approx. 135 minutes.

Script: 10, no bad words or swearing! The dialogue is so genuine, too.

ʻ“Iʼm no Shakespeare!”

“Thank goodness, we already had him.”ʼ

Crew: Directed by: Greta Gerwig. Written by: Greta Gerwig from the original story by Louisa May Alcott.

Starring:

Saoirse Ronan as Jo March.

Emma Watson as Meg March.

Florence Pugh as Amy March.

Eliza Scanlen as Beth March.

Laura Dern as Marmee March.

Timothée Chalamet as Laurie.

ʻ“Itʼs Laurie!”

“I know.”ʼ

James Norton as John Brooke.

Louis Garrel as Friedrich Bhaer.

Dash Barber as Fred Vaughn.

Meryl Streep as Aunt March.

Chris Cooper as Mr. Laurence.

Tracy Letts as Mr. Dashwood.

Bob Odenkirk as Father March.

Jayne Houdyshell as Hannah.

Hadley Robinson as Sallie Gardiner Moffat. 

Maryann Plunkett as Mrs. Kirke.

Sasha Frolova as Mrs. Hummel.

Abby Quinn as Annie Moffat.

Lilly Englert as Kate Vaughn.

Costumes: 10, these are gorgeous! The design, colors, everything about them are so lovely and fitting to each of the characters.

Costumes designed by: Jacqueline Durran.

My favorite: Amyʼs blue!

Cinematography: 10. An important part of this adaptation of Little Women and how it stands out from others is the way it was filmed. As I mentioned in the premise, it has a broken timeline. It switches back and forth between the present day and the past. This is a big complaint of this movie as people say theyʼre confused or that you basically need to have the story already memorized to understand what was happening. Iʼll go into this more later, but I want to point out that I LOVE THIS. I thought it really made it unique from any of version. Maybe youʼre worried now because you want to see it but donʼt know the story or it has been awhile. Have no fear, Iʼm here to help! It uses a format that happens so naturally it can be hard to notice, but once you are looking for it you will never be confused about what is happening: THE LIGHTING. Thatʼs right, itʼs as easy as that! Any scene that is happening in the PRESENT has a blue/gray lighting. Any scene that was in the PAST has a soft yellow/golden lighting. I understand if you donʼt like it, my mom stopped watching after half an hour, but I ask that you try this technique. After explaining it to my dad I would then tell him whenever the lighting switched and he didnʼt have any further troubles.

Example 1: PAST AND GOLDEN LIGHTING:

Example 2: PRESENT AND GREY LIGHTING:

Cinematography by: Yorick Le Saux.

Music: 8, itʼs sweet and works well, but not particularly memorable. I wouldnʼt change it, though!

Music by: Alexandre Desplat.

Quotability: 8, not the most quotable of all time but there are good lines.

“Well, I believe we have some power over who we love.”

Oscars won: 1, Best Costume Design. It was nominated for 5 others, though! Including Best Picture, Best Actress (Saoirse Ronan), and Best Supporting Actress (Florence Pugh).

Content: 10, I canʼt think of any content that would be objectionable to anyone. There is some mild drinking, I suppose, once in a pub type establishment (I believe itʼs called a beer hall?), and once at a different party which is immediately reprimanded. Both are very short scenes. Sad things like sickness happen, but not something to shy away from.

Originality: 10, this gets a full score because it took a timeless tale and made it different but in a way that reflects the original work. Okay, I give up, I was trying to be eloquent but why Iʼm really giving it this score is because of the cinematography.

Good For: Period drama lovers, fans of the book (with caution, more on that later), families, sisters.

Age Range: Perfect for any and all ages!

Overall Score: 9.5!

Worth watching?: Gorgeous costumes, stunning cinematography, characters who walked off of the pages, moments that will break your heart and mend you again. Yes, absolutely in every way.

Will I watch again?: Certainly! I last saw it in August but already want to relive it. This will be a yearly occurence for me, if not more.

“Jo stays in the back so we canʼt see her cry.” (Do I feel called out? Yes, yes I do.)

For the blogathon:

Remember that mystery about why I was reviewing it separately from other versions? This is my entry in The Valentineʼs Day Period Drama Blog Party hosted by Heidi at Along the Brandywine (going until Monday the 15th!). Take a look at the other contributions HERE.

I debated for awhile what to write about as there are so many options! One day, I was listening to people (virtually) talk about this film. The consensus was not a positive one. That got me thinking, and the idea for this post came about.

You read my review and now we come to the second part of my blog post title: “& Defense Of”.

Quite frankly, I adore this film and it gets on my nerves how many times people talk about what a waste it is.

Note, if you donʼt like this movie then thatʼs totally fine! Iʼm glad that we have different opinions as it opens up a chance for discussion! Iʼm just asking that you hear me out and donʼt down this film in every aspect.

I tend to have controversial favorites (The Last Jedi, anyone?) and should be used to people disliking the things that I enjoy. It just gets so depressing, you know? Having people tell you that your favorite things are “bad” or “disappointing” or “worthless”. Iʼm starting to get too deep, but sometimes it feels like that that reflects on you. I know that there are tons of movies that I probably donʼt like that you do! I understand! In fact, there is a different version of Little Women that I don't like that much which you might! This is all okay. We're just here to talk about different and equally awesome and respectful opinions. Weʼre all going to be civil here as I just try to show you my world by telling you why I love this movie so much.

There are many different complaints for this movie, and Iʼll try to cover as many as possible, but I might not get to all of them. The most common one that Iʼve heard is this: the cinematography and filming style.

We already covered this but Iʼm going to recap. The filmmakers made a conscious decision to split the storyline that I approve of. Weʼve covered the technical aspect which I helped to explain, but there is something else that people usually comment on.

It gives away the parts of the story because we see it in the middle instead of the beginning.

True, I canʼt deny that so I wonʼt. As a tried and true fan of the story of Little Women (having read the book and seen two other versions) I know the story inside and out. For a fan like me it was nothing less than a treat to see the story told in a different perspective. Of course, for people who donʼt know what is happening, right from the start in this version you already know things that take time to work up to in the book. This is a valid argument, so if you have no idea about the story you might want to read the book or try another version first. I think it could be a fun way to experience it for the first time, but thatʼs up to you.

I canʼt recommend it to all fans of Little Women, because while I want to, I donʼt know how youʼll react. Both my sisters think that itʼs “okay” but like the 1994 version much better. That being said, I am the only one of us who has read the book, so when they say that they are confused over the timeline it makes sense.

What about me? Is this my favorite version? I canʼt rightly say. I was practically raised on the 1994 version so that will always have a special place in my heart (and the best Laurie!) but this one charms me. Everything about the set and costumes is glorious, itʼs unique, and the actors embody the characters fully. Speaking of, letʼs dive into them a little. (This is still spoiler free!)

Meg: Sometimes in film adaptations with such short time frames Little Women can feel like itʼs Joʼs story. I love how we got so much time with the other girls here. I feel that Meg especially gets neglected as being the older “boring” one. Here they gave her such clear wants and really made her feel whole. Her story has always struck to me in certain ways so I appreciated seeing that and Emma Watson really brought her to life. Her part is the most affected and “spoiled the ending” by starting in the middle. I really love the anticipation of whatʼs going to happen, so if this was your first encounter with the story that would be my sole warning of why you would want to start with a different version.

Jo: Saoirse Ronan IS my Jo. She is EXACTLY how I pictured her in the book. She is full of energy and life and is so relatable on so many levels. So much emotion goes into her (which can be a lot because Joʼs temper and feelings swing wildly) and nothing ever feels faked! Her performance is powerful and moving and one of the reasons I love this film so much.

Beth: You canʼt go wrong with Beth, can you? I thought that Eliza Scanlen played her to perfection.

Amy: Some people generally dislike Amy because she is so different from Jo, but Iʼve never had that problem. We get to another concern: having one actress play her. As I said, my sisters and I are used to the 1994 version, so we are used to two actress play her as she grows up. This can seem strange to you that this doesnʼt happen to any of the others. The thing with Amy is that she has a big age jump. In the beginning she is supposed to be 13, and by the end she is supposed to be 20. All of the other girls are older to begin with, so there is some wiggle room, per say. For Amy there is so much growing that happens in this range that it can be hard to pull off. My sisters say that it wasnʼt the best decision. I admit, Florence Pugh never quite looked 13, maybe 15 at the youngest. Others are irritated by the way she acts when she is playing the younger version. I understand that! Sometimes it seems a little over the top, but overall Iʼm so impressed with her performance. Costumes really helped as well and I just think that she did a miraculous job!

I will one day go into a mountain of details with the characters when I compare them all, but I want to admit one thing. The first time I didnʼt like Timothée Chalametʼs role as Laurie. There, I said it. I thought that he was nowhere as good as Christian Bale (but really, who is?). The second time...I did a 180. He really fits in well with this group of actors! I now approve.

Additional shout outs to Laura Dern, Meryl Streep, and James Norton!

Before I go, I should address one last thing. Some people wonder how much of a “feminist agenda” this has, with the concern that they shouldnʼt tamper with a classic story to add modern themes. Honestly, I donʼt see that as a valid concern. I donʼt think there is “too much” nor is there "too little". It has a balance and addresses issues relevant to both today and back then. I agree that part of the ending does seem tacked on, but anyone who has read the book knows that itʼs more of that. (No one ever does a certain character to justice, but in here it was close. One day I will see someone I am content with).

Now, is this film perfect? Probably not. I just think that it deserves more credit than people are giving it.

How to wrap up such sprawling thoughts? I love this adaptation and always will. It is lovely in every way. I hope that I have convinced you of itʼs value and that you now want to watch it in this form: A story about sisters growing up.

That got long quickly. If you made it this far, thank you so much! Thanks to Heidi for hosting this event, and I urge you guys to check out the rest of the posts HERE.

Time to talk! Anyone have the same opinion as me? Anyone have an opposite one? Either way I would love to discuss the different attributes! What is your favorite version of Little Women? What is the most unique cinematography that youʼve seen?

MovieCritic

The Lovely Blog Party and The Valentine's Day Period Drama Blog Party Tags!

Hello to all of my readers!

Today Iʼll be participating in two blog parties at the same time by answering tags! Usually I would do tags by themselves, but my answers seemed a little dull separately but better together so here we are!

The blog parties are:

The Valentineʼs Day Period Drama Blog Party hosted by Heidi at Along the Brandywine (going until Monday the 15th!). Take a look at the other contributions HERE.

& 

The Lovely Blog Party hosted by Cordy at Any Merry Little Thought (all month!). Check out all of the other contributions HERE.

Iʼll start off with:

Cordyʼs Would You Really Tag!:

1. Would you ever go for a walk in the pouring rain to avoid the company of a gentleman caller?

If Iʼm going out in the rain Iʼm not going to be walking. Iʼm going to be singing and dancing!

Anyway, maybe I would. I definitely would not walk around in the rain to be able to gaze at a manʼs estate only to catch my death of cold.

2. Would you ever, truly, try your hand at matchmaking?

Whoʼs to say that I already havenʼt? Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match!

No, I am afraid I would be terribly obvious, only producing negative results.

3. Would you be comfortable wearing glass slippers for a night out at a ball?

Apparently theyʼre actually really comfy, so maybe I would not mind. Then again, I never wear high heels of any kind because Iʼm already tall so I donʼt have the practice and would most likely fall!

4. Would you ever eat an apple given to you, rather forcibly, by a perfect stranger? 

“Age before beauty.” If there was someone else who needed it more I would share... 

5. Would you ever pretend to be a man's fiancée who you've never actually met?

 Depends. I donʼt see a circumstance where this would ever happen unless I was a spy and the guy was Armie Hammer, like in The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (2015).

6. Would you ever dance with a stranger that sang to you in a forest?

I am rather partial to being serenaded. I like the idea of it. Probably. It also depends on what kind of dancing.

7. Would you ever be the one to propose?

My answer:

8. Would you ever visit the house of a man you refused but is supposedly out of town?

As much as I love that scene in Pride & Prejudice, I donʼt see myself doing this. Unless it was under the cover of darkness or I was disguised. As you can see, Iʼm still thinking that Iʼm a spy for some reason.

For this next tag Iʼm going to to my usual and only use each film that I talk about once. That means that I have to get creative!

SPOILER ALERT! I talk about the endings or important plot points of: Downton Abbey, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018), North & South - by Elisabeth Gaskel, and Sense & Sensibility (1995). If you havenʼt seen those then leave or tread carefully (avoiding questions 3, 6, 9, and 10).

Heidi's Valentine's Day Period Drama Tag:

1. Your current three (or up to five!) favorite period dramas?

Thank you for giving me more options, Heidi! I am terrible at making decisions.

My favorites are: Amazing Grace (2006), Fiddler on the Roof (1971), Pride & Prejudice (1995), Little Women (1994) & Little Women (2019).

2. What would you recommend to someone whoʼs never seen a period drama as a starter?

Jane Austen is always a great start! Iʼd recommend Emma (1996) as I think it was my first experience with Jane Austen AND Period Dramas together. (It mightʼve been the 1995 Sense & Sensibility, but Iʼm using that for another answer).

3. A favorite couple that wouldnʼt be included in answer #1 (ʻcause Iʼm figuring those are already top favorites ;)) and/or a favorite secondary character romance?

Iʼm going to go with one from The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018) (movie because I liked it better than the book) that is the couple of Juliet and Dawsey. When I was reading the book I was kind of oblivious to them being a couple until the very end which caught me off guard, but I really liked the movie because I shipped them the whole time.

4. What do you consider foundational qualities for a healthy romance? 

Patience. Everything else comes from that.

5. Worst villain/antagonist?

Fernand Mondego from The Count of Monte Cristo (2002). He is terrible! The betrayal of his best friend and treatment of his family make him a horrible person, and he isnʼt sorry! He relishes it and is proud of everything heʼs done.

6. A favorite proposal scene?

In Sense & Sensibility (1995) when Edward Ferris proposes to Elinor Dashwood! It is so cute! Everyone is crying and just so happy! You can watch the clip HERE. I recommend it. I've seen this movie a million times but it never fails to make me smile!

7. Favorite period drama characters based on a real life couple?

The Duke and Duchess of York, who then become King George VI and Queen Elizabeth from The Kingʼs Speech (2010). This is one of my favorite movies of all time! Granted, itʼs rated R but thatʼs the only film that Iʼve liked with that rating. Scratch that, itʼs the only one that Iʼve liked AND loved! Both of these characters are amazing. Bertie is going through hard times but Elizabeth is so caring and does her best to help him while being always incredible.

8. Any classic b/w period dramas you like?

Captain Blood (1935)! I just saw this for the first time the other day and ʻtwas marvelous. Pirates, need I say more? Oh, and Errol Flynn and Olivia de Havilland because OF COURSE!

Another one is The Son of Monte Cristo (1940)! My younger sister always rolls her eyes when I talk about this because she thinks it is very cringe worthy, but my older sister and I love it. It is so sweet and precious! Epic sword fights, lovable characters, disguises for the sake of a revolution, it is just brilliant.

9. Most mature romance in a period drama? (mature as in age and/or characters who are consciously and wisely ripened by life experience, etc.)

Talking about the famous period drama Downton Abbey, my favorite most mature romance is Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes. They were one of the reasons that I kept watching the show after so many painful and horrible things happened. Their relationship is just adorable in every way.

10. Most excruciatingly long, slow burn romance in a period drama?

North & South - by Elisabeth Gaskell has an excellently drawn out one featuring Margaret Hale and John Thornton. I havenʼt actually seen a version of this as Iʼve only read the book. I am really interested in the 2004 mini series, though! Anyway, it takes the ENTIRE book and it is so wonderful and I love it so much that itʼs my third favorite book of all time.

11. A story that has multiple film adaptations where you love more than one of them?

The legend of Robin Hood! It is one of my favorite things ever. I have seen 9 versions, and while I havenʼt loved all of them, my favorites are both the BBC Robin Hood (2006-2009) and The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)!

12. A book you think needs to be made into a film (or a new adaptation)?

There are so many period dramas that I havenʼt seen I canʼt even think about making something new. My biggest contenders would be: Agnes Grey - by Anne Brontë (this is a very boring book that is not my favorite, but Iʼd be interested in seeing costumes and sets and whatnot), The Blue Castle - by L. M. Montgomery, Hattie Big Sky - by Kirby Larson, and Wonderland Creek - by Lynn Austin. I canʼt think of anyone good to start in any of these make-believe adaptations, so if any of you have ideas let me know!

Thank you Heidi and thank you Cordy for hosting the events! Be sure to visit The Valentineʼs Day Period Drama Blog Party and The Lovely Blog Party!

Thanks to the rest of you for reading! What do you think of my answers? Where do you agree with me and where do we differ? Did any of you catch any of the non-sequitur references that I was throwing around?

MovieCritic