Little Women (2019) - full transcript

Excuse me.

I was looking
for the Weekly Volcano office.

I wished to see
Mr. Dashwood?

A friend of mine desired me
to offer a story, by her.

She wrote it, she'd be glad
to write more if this suits.

Not a first attempt, I take it?

No, sir, she has sold
to "Olympic" and "Scandal."

And she got a prize for a tale
at the "Blarney Stone Banner."

A prize?

Yes.

Sit.



We'll take this.

You will?

With alterations. It's too long.

But, you've cut...

I took care to have
a few of my sinners repent.

The country just went through a war.

People want to be amused,
not preached at.

Morals don't sell nowadays.

Perhaps mention that to your "friend."

What compensation--
How do you..?

We pay 25 to 30 for things of this sort.
We'll pay 20 for that.

You can have it. Make the edits.

Should I tell my, my friend that
you'll take another

if she had one better than this?



We'll look at it.
Tell her to make it short and spicy.

And if the main character is a girl,
make sure she's married by the end.

Or dead, either way.

Excuse me?

What name would she like
put to the story?

Yes - none at all, if you please.

Just as she likes, of course.

Good morning, sir. Good day.

My Beth would like you very much.

This is a boarding house, not a charity,
I need the rent on time!

Good afternoon, Miss March.

Good afternoon.

You're on fire.

Thank you.

You're on fire!

Thank you.

I have the same habit, you see?

Kitty and Minny are waiting!

My students need me.

Always working.

Money is the end and aim
of my mercenary existence.

No one gets ink stains like yours
just out of a desire for money.

Well, my sister Amy is in Paris, and until
she marries someone obscenely wealthy,

it's up to me to keep
the family afloat.

Goodbye.

The decadents have ruined Paris,
if you ask me.

These French women
couldn't lift a hairbrush.

Amy! I said, "These French women
couldn't lift a hairbrush."

Oh yes! Very true, Aunt March.

Don't humor me, girl.

What did they write,
your troublemaking family?

Mother doesn't say anything about Beth.

I feel I should go back,
but they all say "stay."

You can do nothing if you go back.
The girl is sick, not lonely.

And you shouldn't go home until you
and Fred Vaughn are properly engaged.

Yes, and until I've completed
all of my painting lessons, of course.

Oh, yes, yes.

Of course.

Stop the carriage! Laurie! Laurie!

Amy!

My, you've grown so much!

You wrote you'd meet me
at the hotel.

- I couldn't find you anywhere--
- You didn't look hard enough!

Or maybe I didn't recognize you
because you're so beautiful now.

- Oh, stop it.
- I thought you liked that sort of thing.

No, where's your Grandfather?

He's in Germany. He's still traveling.
I'm traveling on my own now--

And flirting and gambling and drinking--

Don't tell your mother.

Are you chasing some young girl
across Europe?

No.

I couldn't believe
Jo turned you down. I'm so sorry.

Don't be, Amy. I'm not.

Amy! Amy March!

You come back here
right this instance!

Come. Come on.

Get him off me! Allons-y.
I'm meaning to be somewhere.

Laurie, come to the New Year's Party!

It's a ball and everyone
will be there, including Fred.

Pick me up at the hotel
at eight - the Chavain!

Laurie, dress for festivities!
Top hats and silks!

I will! I'll wear my best silk.

It's Laurie!

I know.

Twenty yards of the blue silk
as well as the pink.

Someone will be by for it later.

Meg! That would look
so lovely on you.

I know just the dressmaker
to send you to.

You'll be the prettiest wife
in Concord.

John needs a new coat for winter,

and Daisy and Demi
need new clothes--

And his wife needs a new dress.

I can't... it's...

I just can't.

He'll be so pleased
with how you look,

he'll forget all about the expense.

I don't suppose that's too much
an extravagance.

Will 20 yards do?

Yes.

Very good.

Fifty dollars, what was I thinking?

Mommy -- mommy!

My loves.

Go play.

Beth?

Beth?

There lies your way, due west.
Then westward-ho!

Grace and good disposition
attend your ladyship!

You'll nothing, madam,
to my lord by me?

Stay! I prithee, tell me
what thou thinkest of me.

That you do think you are not
what you are.

If I think so,
I think the same of you.

Then think you right:
I am not what I am.

Excuse me?

I only speak English.
I'm sorry. What?

What did you say?

Come dance.

I know exactly who I want
to dance with.

Who will you dance with, Jo?

You know I never dance.

Why can't we all go
to the party?! It's not fair!

- Just wear your regular shoes.
- These fit last winter.

My nose will simply
not look refined.

I like your nose.

Now, Jo--

Don't touch me, thanks!
I already feel ridiculous.

I don't want to look--

- You could be pretty if you tried.
- Don't want to, won't do it.

I don't want to go but I wish
I could hear all the music.

I'll keep it all in my head
and try to sing it for you.

Ought they to smoke like that?

It's the dampness drying.

What a queer smell,
it's like burnt feathers.

I'll take this off and you'll see
a perfect ringlet.

Why is her hair off?

- Meg, I'm so sorry.
- What have you done?!

I'm sorry! You shouldn't
have asked me to do it!

Marmee! I can't go!
I'm spoilt! My hair!

Don't stare, don't put
your hands behind your back,

don't say Christopher Columbus,
don't say Capital,

don't shake hands, don't whistle.

Meg March! You look so pretty!

Meg...

Sorry, I didn't know
anyone was here.

Not at all, stay, if you like.

I won't disturb you?

No, I don't know many people here,
I felt rather strange at first.

So do I.

Miss March, isn't it?

Yes, Mr. Laurence,
but I'm not Miss March, I'm only Jo.

And I'm not Mr. Laurence,
I'm only Laurie.

Don't you dance?

I don't know how you do
things here yet,

I've spent most
of my life in Europe.

Europe! That's Capital!

I shouldn't use words like that.

Says who?

Meg. She's my older sister. Here.

That's her, see?

The girl in the violet dress?

It's very pretty.

She reminds me to be good, so Father
will be proud of me when he returns.

Where is he?

Volunteered for the Union Army.
And I wanted to go fight with him.

I can't get over my disappointment
in being a girl.

Jo, would you like
to dance with me?

I can't, because...

Because of what?

You won't tell?

Never.

I scorched my dress, see? There.

And Meg told me to keep still,
so no one would see it.

You can laugh if you want to.
It's funny, I know.

I have an idea
of how we can manage.

My foot - I've hurt my ankle.

How am I going to get home?

I don't see what you can do
except get a carriage

- or stay here all night.
- Carriages are too expensive.

Let me take you.
It's right next door.

No, thank you,
we cannot accept.

You must take mine. Please.

No, it's so early,
you can't mean to leave yet.

I always leave early - I do, truly.

What choice do you have?

I told you those shoes
were too small.

Goodness gracious,
what have you done!

- You're back! How was it?
- Clear that chair.

All right, help your sister,
then back to bed!

Make room,
Meg is a wounded soldier!

I sprained my ankle.

Oh, Meg - you'll kill yourself
for fashion one of these days.

Hannah! We need ice!

- Come in. Come in.
- It's all right.

Apologies for the chaos:

I enjoy baking in the middle
of the night.

And don't mind the clutter,
Mr. Laurence, we don't.

Laurie, please.

Can I call you Teddy?

Yes.

You must be part of
their theatricals! They could use--

I'm Amy.

Hello.

- Have a scone.
- This? Thank you.

Laurie, how are your ankles?
Do you need ice?

No, thank you, ma'am.

Just call me Mother, or Marmee.
Everyone does.

Meg, why didn't you wear
those pink shoes--

It's cold!

But they look so good!

It feels like being a fine young lady
to come home from my party

in a carriage and have maids
wait on me.

For the writer in the attic:

Because you enjoyed the play
so much tonight,

I wanted you to have this.

It will help you study character
and paint it with your pen.

I would love to read
what you're writing, if you'll trust me.

I promise honesty
and whatever intelligence I can muster.

Yours, Friedrich.

Fred, would you like a glass?

I will, thank you.

Would you excuse me
for one second?

Laurie.

Amy.

I waited an hour for you.

I feel caught.

Amy, please! Amy.

Do you want to know
what I honestly think of you?

What do you honestly think of me?

- I despise you.
- Why do you despise me?

Because with every chance
of being good, happy and useful

you are lazy, faulty and miserable.

Oh, this is interesting.

Selfish people do like
to talk about themselves.

- Am I selfish?
- Yes, very selfish.

With your money,
talent, beauty, and health.

Oh, you think I'm beautiful?

You like that, you old vanity -

with all these good things to enjoy,
you can find nothing to do but dawdle.

I'll be good for you, Saint Amy,
I'll be good!

Aren't you ashamed
of a hand like that?

No, I'm not.

Looks like it's never done a day of work
in its life, and that ring is ridiculous.

Jo gave me this ring.

I feel sorry for you, I really do.

I just wish you'd bear it better.

You don't have to feel sorry for me, Amy.
You'll feel the same way one day.

No, I'd be respected
if I couldn't be loved.

What have you done lately,
oh great "artiste"?

Perhaps, you're fantasizing about
spending Fred Vaughn's fortune?

Fred Vaughn, ladies and gentlemen!

Fred, I'm so sorry.

Those are just stories, of course.

But I'm working on a novel.

And your novel,
it will be like this?

Yes... so far, anyway.

With plots like this?
Duels and killing?

It sells, so...

Why don't you sign
your real name?

My mother wouldn't like it.

It's too gory for her.

I want to help with the money I make,
and not worry her.

You know, I don't like them.

Honestly, I mean...

I think that they're not good.

But...

They're published in the papers,

and people have always said
that I'm talented.

Oh, I think you're talented,
which is why I'm being so blunt.

I can't afford to starve on praise.

Are you upset?

Of course, I'm upset!

You just told me
you didn't like my work!

I thought you wanted honesty.

Yes, I do!

Has no one ever talked to you
like this before?

Yes, I've been rejected
plenty of times.

Do you have anyone
to take you seriously, Jo,

to talk about your work?

And who made you High Priest
of what's good and what's bad?

- No one, and I'm not.
- Then why are you acting like it?

Jo, your reaction indicates that--

My reaction indicates
that you are a pompous blowhard!

Shakespeare wrote for the masses.

Shakespeare was the greatest poet
who ever lived,

because smuggled
his poetry in popular works.

- But, I'm no Shakespeare.
- Thank goodness, we already have him.

If you know so much about it,
then why don't you do it yourself?

Because I'm not a writer.

I don't have the gifts you have.

No, you don't!

And you will always be a critic,
and never an author,

and the world will forget
that you've ever even lived.

I'm sure they will.

But I...

No one will forget Jo March.

I can believe it.

Listen, we are not friends,
you are not my friend.

And I don't want your opinion
because I don't like you very much,

so, just don't talk to me anymore,
thank you.

Josephine, this came for you.

Thank you.

Jo, came home immediately,
Beth has taken a turn for the worse. Mother.

Beth.

Merry Christmas, world.

- Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas!

- Jo, we've been up for hours.
- What have you been writing?

I got carried away with our delicious
revenge play last night. Poison.

No, no poison, It's Christmas!

Christmas won't be Christmas
without any presents.

It's so dreadful being poor.

How come some girls get to have
lots of pretty things

and others have nothing at all.

At least we have father
and mother, and each other.

We haven't got father.

And we won't have him
for as long as this war drags on.

I wish I had heaps of money
and plenty of servants,

so I never had to work again.

You could be a proper actress
on the boards.

- They aren't all fallen women.
- I can't be an actress.

I have lots of wishes,
but my favorite one is to be an artist

in Paris, and do fine pictures,
and to be the best painter in the world.

That's what you want too, isn't it Jo?
To be a famous writer?

Yes, but it sounds so crass
when she says it.

- Why be ashamed of what you want?
- I'm not.

My wish is to have us all to be together
with Father and Mother in this house.

- That's what I want.
- Beth is perfect.

What about your music, Queen Bess?

I only do that for us,
I don't need anyone else to hear it.

You must not limit yourself.

Mother proposed not having
any Christmas presents this year

because our men are suffering
in the army.

We can't do much, but we can make
our little sacrifices and do it gladly.

Don't play mother
just because she's not home.

- Jo, that's so boyish.
- That's why I do it.

- I detest rude, unladylike-like girls.
- I hate affected little chits.

My nose! My nose!
It's already no good!

I know you don't care what I think,
but you don't want your mother

to find you like this, do you?

Of course, we care
what you think, Hannah.

You're more family
than wicked old Aunt March.

- Don't, Jo.
- Where is Marmee?

Goodness only knows.
Some poor creature came a-beggin',

your ma set straight off
to see what was needed.

I wish she could help other people
at a time convenient to us.

- Joanna and I are very hungry.
- Dolls don't get hungry, Beth.

I've re-written the climax,
and we need to set it to memory.

Amy, you get the costumes.

I have made the most divine crown,
and I painted my old shoes blue,

so she looks like a princess.

I think the melancholy piece
I've figured out is pretty good.

Meg, wait until you see
this new speech.

I don't see how you can write
such splendid things, Jo.

- You're a regular Shakespeare.
- Not quite.

Miss Michelangelo, can you please
rehearse the fainting scene?

You're as stiff as a poker in that.

I can't help it.
I never saw anyone faint before,

and I don't intend to make myself
all black and blue.

If I can fall down easily, I'll try.

And If I cannot, I shall fall
gracefully into a chair,

and I don't care if Hugo
comes at me with a pistol.

- Hannah...
- I'm not acting.

I didn't even say anything!

I knew what you were going to say
and I'm not acting.

Merry Christmas, girls!

Marmee! Merry Christmas!

I'm so glad to see you so happy.

Jo, you look tired - were you up
again all night writing?

Of course.

Amy, come kiss me!

Merry Christmas.
How are my girls?

- I'm so hungry!
- Look at this breakfast!

- I could eat a horse.
- Don't say that, Jo!

I can't believe this is our Christmas.

What?

What is it?

Not far from here lives a poor
young woman, Mrs. Hummel.

Her five children are in one bed
to keep from freezing,

and there is nothing to eat.

My girls, will you give them
your breakfast as a Christmas present?

Is this where you say that Father
would want us to?

Yes.

Thank you.

And thank you, Mr. Laurence,
for including me.

You're welcome.

Perhaps you could tutor my grandson
in manners as well as mathematics.

Ach, mein Gott!
It is good angels come to us!

I'm back! I have food
and blankets and sweaters.

And we brought some medicine.
These are my girls.

Say hello.

He's not well.

Girls, why don't you
unpack the food...

Would you like some of these?

You want one?

It's good, isn't it?

Is it fairies?

- Santa Claus.
- No, it's old Aunt March.

Mr. Laurence sent it.

The Laurence boy's grandfather?

- Yes.
- Why?

He saw you giving your Christmas breakfast away,
and he wanted you to enjoy the day.

But I thought he was
a mean old man.

That's so generous of him.

His grandson Laurie
put the idea into his head.

I know he did.
We should make friends with him.

Boys scare me.

And that big old house scares me.

Jenny Snow says that Mr. Laurence
disowned his son

after he went off
with an Italian woman,

and now his grandson is an orphan,
and he spends all of his time in that house

locked up with his tutor.

He's a very kind man who lost
his little girl when she was only a child,

and now his son as well.

His daughter died? That's so sad.

But doesn't Laurie just seem
so romantic? He's half Italian.

What do you know? You've
barely ever spoken to him.

I am not responsible for this feast,
but I have got a surprise.

Is he coming home, our Father?

Don't I wish I could go...

Poor Jo - we can't give up
our only brother.

It must be very disagreeable
to sleep in a tent.

Jo sits in the back,
so we can't see her cry.

- So what if I do?
- When will he be coming home?

He'll stay and work faithfully
as long as he can,

and we won't ask for him to come back
a minute sooner than he can be spared.

"Give them all my dear love and a kiss.
Tell them I think of them by day,

pray for them by night,

and find my best comfort
in their affection at all times.

A year seems a very long time
to wait before I see them,

but remind them that while we wait
we may all work,

so these hard days
need not be wasted.

I know they will be
loving children to you,

do their duty faithfully,
fight their enemies bravely,

and conquer themselves
so beautifully...

'The Witch's Curse' - a play by Jo March.

Maketh sweet and swift and strong...

...and when I come back to them
I may be

fonder and prouder than ever
of my little women."

Brava!

Excuse me.

Excuse me. Your stop, ma'am.

Thank you.

She's gone? Why?

I don't know. She just left.

But she didn't say
if she was coming back?

We didn't have
a heart to heart, Professor.

Why are you just sitting there?
Please go, go! Dust something.

And what about the girls?
She was the best teacher they ever had.

I know.

It is so hard to go back to work
after such good times.

I wish it was Christmas every day.

Or New Year's,
wouldn't that be exciting?

We are a bunch of
ungrateful minxes.

Don't say such despicable thing!

I like good strong words
that mean something.

I have to go back to school
and I don't have any limes.

All the girls were trading
pickled limes, and I'm in debt.

I owe every so many limes.

- Will this do?
- What did you do that for?

Meg, thank you!

I know what it is to want little things
and feel less than other girls.

Between that and the drawings
that would wipe out my debt.

- What drawings?
- Nothing.

I'm just glad that mother doesn't make me
go to school with all those girls...

Hurry! I'll be late!

Beth, after your shopping,
I need you to work your way through

the new sums and spelling
and I'll check it all when I get home.

- Fine.
- Bye.

- Josephine.
- Yes?

- Josephine.
- Yes, here.

Is there a reason you stopped
reading Belsham?

I'm sorry, I'll continue.

You mind yourself, dearie,
some day you'll need me

and you'll wish
you had behaved better.

Thank you, Aunt March, for your employment
and your many kindnesses,

but I intend to make my own way
in the world.

No one makes their own way,
not really,

least of all a woman.
You'll need to marry well.

But you are not married, Aunt March.

That's because I'm rich.

And I made sure
to keep all of my money,

unlike your Father.

So, the only way to be
an unmarried woman is to be rich?

Yes.

But there are precious few ways
for women to make money.

That's not true.

You could run a cat house,
or go on the stage.

Practically the same thing.

Other than that, you're right,
precious few ways for women.

That's why you should heed me.

So I can get married?

No, so you can live a better life
than your poor mother has.

Marmee loves her life.

You don't know what she loves.

Your father cared more about educating
freedmen's children

than he did about caring
for his own family.

Yes, but he was right.

It's possible to be right and foolish.

Well, I don't think so.

Well, you're not paid to think.

I know you don't care much
about marriage now.

I can't say I blame you.

But I intend to go to Europe
one more time, and I need a companion.

How would you like to be
the person I take?

I'd like that more than anything.

All right, then read.

And don't sneak around.
I don't like sneaks.

President Lincoln.

No! Father is fighting for him.

My father says
the war is a waste,

and we should just let them
keep their labor.

Susan, it is immoral.

Everyone benefited from the system,
including you Marches.

Why should
only the south be punished?

- We should all be punished.
- The Marches love a cause.

Fine, just do Mr. Davis.

I don't know if I should.

I'll wipe your debt
and give you five more limes besides.

Miss March.

Sit down.

Sit down, Laurie.

Latin is a privilege.
Please, you have to learn this.

I can't afford to lose this position.
Just return to the Cicero.

There's a girl out there.

- No, there is not.
- Yes, Mr. Brooke, there is a girl!

No, there is not.

- Oh, there is a girl!
- That's a girl.

Hello there! Are you hurt?

I'm Amy.

Hello Amy, I'm Laurie.

I know, you brought my sister back
after the dance.

I would've never sprained my ankle,
I have lovely small feet.

The best in the family.
But I can never go home again,

because I'm in such trouble.

Look.

Mr. Davis hit me.

Tell the servants I want this painting
purchased for me! Immediately!

Amy, are you in here?

Meg! My hand. Look.

- Jo.
- What richness!

It hurts so much.

Theodore Lawrence you ought to be
the happiest boy in the world!

A fellow can't live on books alone.

I could. Would did you do?

Nothing. I did nothing.
I did a drawing and then Mr. Davis hit me.

Christopher Columbus, look at that.

That's my grandfather.
Are you scared of him?

No, I'm not scared of anyone!

He looks stern, but my grandfather
was much more handsome.

Jo! We do not compare grandfathers.

You think he's more handsome, hey?

No, actually, you are very handsome.
I didn't mean--

I knew your mother's father.
You've got his spirit.

Oh, well... Thank you, sir.

You are not to attend
that school anymore.

Good, that man
has always been an idiot.

- Jo will teach you.
- Me? I already teach Beth!

You're a good teacher.

Yes, women being taught at home
is much more proper, I believe.

Only because the schools
for women are so poor.

Indeed, quite right.

I wish all the girls would leave
his horrible school and that he would die.

Amy, you did wrong,
and there will be consequences.

I didn't! I didn't even do anything!
I just did a drawing!

Thank you so much
for taking care of our Amy.

Yes, of course.

My girls have a way
of getting into mischief.

So do I.

Then, you'll run over
and we'll take care of you.

Please, and come over whenever you'd like.
Invite you sister Beth as well.

Yes! Beth would adore the piano!

Is she the quiet one?

- Yes.
- That's our Beth.

Tell the little girl
to use our piano.

And Jo, borrow whatever book
you'd like.

- Can I come look at the paintings?
- Yes.

There is also
a lovely greenhouse.

We must go, girls.

I'm going to take this.

I'm gonna take this one,
if that's okay.

I'll bring it back soon, I promise.

- Thank you for my hand!
- Thank you, bye.

Oh, Miss Meg!
You forgot your glove!

Back to work. Back to work.

Order! Order!

Order!

A new play, written by Miss Jo March,
will appear at the Barnville Theatre,

in the course of the next
few weeks, that will surpass

anything ever seen
before on the American stage.

Starring the greatest actress from here
to the Mississippi River, Miss Meg March.

Weekly report:
Meg - good, Jo - bad,

Beth - very good,
and Amy - sort of middling.

Mr. President and gentlemen,

I wish to propose the admission
of a new member.

One, who would be
deeply deeply grateful,

and would add immensely
to the spirit of the club.

I propose

Mr. Theodore Laurence!

- Absolutely not!
- No!

What? Come now,
let's have him.

He's a real boy!

We don't want any boys.
This is a club for ladies.

I think we should to do it,
even if we are afraid.

I say yes. It's Laurie!

- No!
- It will change everything!

All right. I call a vote.

- Put your hands up. Aye! Aye!
- Don't put your hand up!

Put your hand up. It's Laurie.

Fine! Aye!

And, as there is no time
like present.

Ladies, please - this is my stratagem,
I deserve the blame:

Jo only gave into it
after lots of teasing. Yes.

I merely wish to say,
as a slight token of my gratitude

and as a means of promoting friendly
relations between adjoining nations,

And thus I propose this set of keys
for a little post office

I've made in the forest
by the pond. Yes.

Four keys, for you darling.

...and for you.

Thank you. Thank you very much.

And this is for me.
Without further ado

Thank you for your favor,
I will take my seat as a part of the club.

Hello!

Daisy and Demi!

You've gotten so big!

I wish you were here
to teach them...

I know. I'm here now.

So good to have you home.

I think the loneliness got to Beth,
though she ain't said anything.

Where is Beth?

She's upstairs. Oh, my Jo.

We all thought she was better,
but the fever had weakened her heart.

Take this and find her
the best doctor you can.

No, you need this money
to live in New York.

I'm not going back.

I'm using the rest to take her
to the sea and get her strong.

When's Amy coming home?

We didn't want to worry her.

Does she not know?

Beth insisted we not tell her
because she didn't want to ruin Amy's trip.

Amy has always had a talent
for getting out of the hard parts of life.

Jo, don't be angry
with your sister.

Jo! Jo, where are you?

- I can't find my other glove.
- Take mine.

Jo we're going to be late!

- Where are you going?
- You're not invited.

You are going somewhere
with Laurie, I know it!

Yes, we are, now stop bothering.

- Do you have the tickets?
- Yes! Hurry up!

You're going to the theatre
with Laurie.

Meg, please, can I come?

I'm sorry, dear,
but you weren't invited.

You can't go Amy, so don't be a baby
and whine about it.

I've been shut up in here
and I never get to go anywhere.

Beth has her piano,
and I'm so lonely!

I can teach you chords.

I don't want chords, Beth
I want to go--

No. I think you'd hate to poke yourself in
where you're not wanted.

We already have to deal with
dull Mr. Brooke.

I like him, he's kind.

- I can pay for myself.
- You will not come!

I'm sorry, my sweet,
but Jo is right. Next time.

Come, Meg, stop petting her.

Please! Please!

You'll be sorry for this Jo March!
You will! You'll regret this!

Stop looking at me like that!

Jo!

Meg, you're a million times better
than she was.

Although she was
a terrific fainter.

I wonder how she managed
to turn so white as she did.

That Mr. Brooke, could he be
any more obsequious?

I thought he was very well-mannered.

Hold on, let me just get
this idea down.

Beth, what's your favorite eye color?

Purple.

Mr. Brooke has blue eyes
and an old soul,

which is much more important
than money.

Has anyone taken my novel?

- No.
- No, why?

Amy, you've got it.

No, I haven't.

- That's a lie.
- No, it isn't.

I haven't got it, I don't know
where it is and I don't care.

Tell me or I'll make you!

I burnt your book!

I told you I'll make you pay,
and I did!

Jo! Jo!

I'm sorry, Jo.

Amy.

It's just that the only thing
you care about is your writing.

And it's not as if I could've hurt you
by ruining one of your dresses.

And I really did want to hurt you.

I am the most sorry
for it now. I'm so sorry.

Jo.

Don't let the sun
go down on your anger.

Forgive her. Help each other.

And you begin again tomorrow.

She doesn't deserve my forgiveness.

And I will hate her!
I will hate her forever!

Good morning ladies!
Brisk and brilliant outside today,

last day at the river -
get your ice skates!

Jo, you promised me
I could come last time, Jo!

Is she going to be like this forever?

It was a very hard loss for her.

Is there nothing I can do?

Go after her.

Don't say anything till Jo
has got good-natured with Laurie,

and then just say some kind thing,
I'm sure she'll be friends again.

Jo! Wait! I'm coming!

You said I could come last time.

Jo! Wait! Wait! I'm coming!

Wait! Jo!

Stay near the edge,
it's not safe in the middle.

Got it.

Jo!

Jo, I'm coming!

Jo!

Jo, let's go.

Jo, wait!

Jo!

Are you all right?

Yes.

Help! Help me!

Amy! It's Amy!

Jo!

Jo!

Jo, get a branch!
Get a branch!

Amy! Amy!

Please help me!

Jo, help me pull.

Amy, grab the branch! Grab it, Amy!

I'm so sorry!
Oh, my sister! Oh, my sister!

She's asleep.

If she had died
it would've been my fault.

She'll be fine.

The doctor said he didn't even think
she'd catch cold.

What is wrong with me?

I've made so many resolutions, and written
sad notes, and I've cried over my sins,

but it just doesn't seem to help.

When I get in a passion
I get so savage,

I could hurt anyone
and I'd enjoy it.

You remind me of myself.

But you're never angry.

I'm angry nearly every day
of my life.

You are?

I'm not patient by nature,
but with nearly 40 years of effort

I'm learning to not let it get
the better of me.

I'll do the same, then.

I hope you'll do a great deal
better than me.

There are some natures
too noble to curb,

and too lofty to bend.

Jo.

Oh, Beth! My love!

You didn't need to come.

I never should've left.
Do you need anything?

Take some water.

It's so good to see your face.

We're going to the sea
to get you strong and well.

The sea?

I want you dancing by the time
Amy gets back.

She's not cutting her trip
short, is she?

- No. No.
- Good.

Is there any news?
What does she say?

She writes that Laurie is there.

I'm glad he's with her.

He won't respond
to any of my letters.

Do you miss him?

I miss everything.

I know.

Hurry up, you two. Meg is going
to be gone for a week.

We're coming.

You take the other carriage, Laurie,
and spy on Meg,

make sure she doesn't fall in love.

I will.

It was so nice of Annie
to invite me to her debutante ball.

Thank you for letting
me go, Marmee.

Just be who you are,

And wear this to the ball,
it was mine when I was your age.

I've never understood
saving jewelry until marriage.

You should have something
that's just yours.

Pretty things should be enjoyed.

Yes, pretty things should be enjoyed.

I wish I could go
to the debutante ball.

Do you think this is a good idea,
her going away like this?

Girls have to go into the world
and make up their own minds about things.

Don't forget about us.

I won't Jo, it's only a week.

- It's beautiful.
- It's not yours.

It would look very good on me.

She needs to have
some decent shoes.

Thank you for the carriage, Mr. Laurence.
I don't know how to repay you.

Nonsense. Nonsense.

Although there is one thing.

It occurred to me today that my daughter's
piano suffers from want of use.

Any of your girls like to run over,
and practice on it now and then,

just to keep it in tune?

If they don't care to come,
then never mind.

Oh, sir, they do care,
very very much.

You are the musical girl?

I love it dearly,

and I'll come, if you are quite sure
nobody will hear me, and be disturbed.

Not a soul, my dear.

- I'll miss you.
- Bye.

Bye.

Enjoy the ball.

I'll be back soon.

Don't go and get married, Meg!

Don't go falling in love!

- Unless right now.
- I love you.

Right this second.

Thank you.

I'd be so excited about tonight.

Now what dress
will you wear tonight, Meg?

- I will wear this one.
- That one?

Can't you send home
for another?

I haven't got another.

Only the one?
Oh, that's so funny.

Not at all.

There's no need
in sending home, Daisy.

I'm going to call you
Daisy now.

I've got a sweet pink dress
laid away,

and you'll wear it to please me,
won't you, Daisy?

If it's all right.

Of course!

Everyone's in love with you, Daisy.

You have to keep my dress.

I can't keep your dress.

You have to, please.

Have fun, little Daisy.

Laurie.

I didn't know
you were going to come.

It was supposed to be a surprise.

And what a lovely surprise it is.

Why are they calling you "Daisy"?

It's their pet name for me.

Meg is a perfectly good name.

It's just like playing a part,
to be Daisy for a little while.

What would Jo say?

You wouldn't actually marry
one of these men, would you?

I might.

You'll get a terrible
headache tomorrow.

Do you like how I look?

No, I don't.

Why not.

I don't like fuss and feathers.

You are the rudest boy
I ever saw!

Please forgive me and come dance.

I'm afraid it would be
too disagreeable for you.

I don't like your dress,

but I think you are just splendid.

Really?

Really.

I know it's silly,
but please don't tell Jo.

Let me have my fun tonight.

I'll be desperately good
for the rest of my life.

I'm sorry, John.

The silk was the first
real expense.

Fifty dollars, while a lot, is not,
I suppose, too much for a dress,

with all the notions that are needed
to finish it these days.

It's not exactly
even a dress yet...

It's just the fabric.

I see.

I know you are angry, John.

I don't mean to waste your money,
but I can't resist

when I see Sallie buying all she wants,
and pitying me because I don't.

I try to be contented,
but it is hard.

I'm tired of being poor.

I was afraid of this.

I do my best, Meg.

Oh, John, my dear,
kind, hardworking boy.

It was so ungrateful and wicked.

How could I say it!

Perhaps you meant it.

No! I didn't!

We'll work out a way
to get you your coat as well,

and then won't we be grand,
the two of us?

I can't afford it, my dear.

John...

I need to go to bed.

John...

And I really am very sorry
that you've had to do

without so many beautiful things.

And that you're married to someone
who can't give them to you.

Hello Amy!

I don't want to see you.

Amy, don't be mad.

I'm sorry for how I behaved.

Have you been drinking again?

Why are you being
so hard on me? It's 4 p.m.

Someone has to do it.

When do you begin
your great work of art, Raphaella?

Never.

Never? What? Why?

I'm a failure.

Jo is in New York, being a writer,
and I am a failure.

That's quite a statement
to make at 20.

Rome took all the vanity
out of me.

And Paris made me realize
I'd never be a genius.

So, I'm giving up all my foolish
artistic hopes.

Why should you give up, Amy?
You have so much talent--

Talent isn't genius!

And no amount of energy
can make it so.

I want to be great, or nothing.

I will not be a some common-place dauber,
and I don't intend to try anymore.

What women are allowed
into the club of geniuses anyway?

The Brontes?

- That's it?
- Yes, I think so.

And who always declares genius?

Men, I suppose.

They're cutting down
the competition.

That's a very complicated argument
to make me feel better.

Do you though? Do you feel better?

I do think male or female,
I am of middling talent.

Middling talent?

Then, may I ask
your last portrait be of me?

All right.

Now that you've given up
all your foolish artistic hopes,

what are you going to do
with your life?

Polish up my other talents
and become an ornament to society.

That's where Fred Vaughn
comes in, I suppose.

- Don't make fun!
- I only said his name.

You are not engaged, I hope?

No.

But you will be, if he goes down
properly on one knee?

Most likely, yes.

He is rich, richer than you, even.

I understand queens of society
can't get on without money.

Although it does sound odd from the mouth
of one of your mother's girls.

I've always known I would marry rich.
Why should I be ashamed of that?

There is nothing to be ashamed of,
as long as you love him.

I believe we have some power
over who we love,

it isn't something that just happens
to a person.

I think the poets might disagree.

I'm not a poet,
I'm just a woman.

And as a woman there is no way for me
to make my own money,

not enough to earn a living
or to support my family.

And if I had my own money,
which I don't,

that money would belong to my husband
the moment we got married.

And if we had children
they would be his, not mine.

They would be his property.

So, don't sit there and tell me
that marriage

isn't an economic proposition,
because it is.

It may not be for you
but it most certainly is for me.

That's Fred, can you
unbutton me please?

Thank you.

How do I look? Do I look all right?

You look beautiful.

You are beautiful.

Fred! I've missed you.

This is Fred Vaughn,
and his sister Kate,

of course you know Mr. Brooke.

This is Meg, Amy, Beth, and Jo.

So pleased to meet you.

Oh, how elegant.

I'm Amy March.
You remember that name.

I'm going to come find you
one day in London.

Oh, I certainly will!

I know something you don't know.

Tell me this second!

Has Meg perhaps mislaid a glove?

- Mr. Brooke has it?
- Yes.

How do you know?

- I saw it.
- Where?

His pocket.

- All this time?
- Yes, isn't it romantic?

- No, it's horrid.
- I thought you'd be pleased.

At the idea of anybody coming
to take Meg away? No, thank you.

You'll feel better about it
when somebody comes to take you away.

I'd like to see anyone try it.

I would like to see
someone try it as well.

"We could never have loved
the earth so well

if we had had no childhood in it,

if it were not the earth where
the same flowers come up again every spring

that we used to gather
with our tiny fingers.

What novelty is worth
that sweet monotony

where everything is known
and loved because it is known?"

How great is that?

I love to listen to you read, Jo,

but I just love it even better
when you read the stories you've written.

I don't have any new stories.

Why not?

Haven't written any.

You have pencil and paper.
Sit here and write me something.

I can't.

I don't think I can anymore.

Why?

It's just...

no one even cares to hear
my stories anyway.

Write something for me.

You are a writer.

Even before anyone knew or paid you.

I'm very sick and you must do
what I say.

Do what Marmee taught us to do.
Do it for someone else.

If you're walking to Vermont,

there is Mrs. Sewell
in Keene New Hampshire

who will give you room and board.

There you are.

You should go home to the girls,
I can take care of this.

No, I need to be here.

I've spent my whole life
ashamed of my country.

No offense meant
but you should still be ashamed.

I know, I am.

- Hello, sir.
- Hello, ma'am.

Do you have sons in the Army?

Yes, ma'am, I had four,
but two were killed.

And one is a prisoner,
I'm going to the other,

who is very sick
in a Washington hospital.

You've done a great deal
for your country, sir.

I'd go myself, if I was any use.

As I ain't, I give my boys.

Sir, I'll get you a blanket

to keep you warm.

Thank you. God Bless.

Bless you, sir.

Mrs. March?

Telegram from Washington, ma'am.

Is Jo back yet from Aunt March?

No, I haven't seen her yet.

You want another pair of shoes?

Thank you. I can't miss the last train.

Hannah, did you get
Father's night shirts?

Yes, I did.

What can I do to help, Beth?

Thank you so much for being here.

Of course.

Did you find the warm blanket?

If I may be of any more assistance,
please tell me.

I will look in on the girls
every day, without fail.

Thank you, for everything.

I've always admired your husband,
I pray for a quick recovery.

I found these linens.

- Hannah, medicine?
- Medicine is all packed.

I'm sorry.

I came to offer myself
as escort to your mother.

Mr. Laurence has commissions for me
in Washington,

and it will give me real satisfaction
to be of service to her there.

- Thank you.
- Of course.

While I'm gone,
Hannah is in charge.

Remember to check on the Hummel's,
it will be a difficult winter for everyone.

Will this be enough
for the train?

Twenty five dollars!

That's not like Aunt March
to be so generous.

I didn't go to Aunt March,
I couldn't bear to.

Where did you get the money?

I only sold what was my own.

Jo, your hair!

- Your one beauty!
- You look like a boy.

It doesn't affect the fate
of the nation, so don't wail.

I am so proud
you are my daughter.

I was just crazy to do something
for Father.

It'll be good for my vanity, anyway.

It could be nice.

- You never do that.
- This isn't what I wanted for her.

Oh, Teddy.

Oh, Jo.

I love you more
than words can say.

Be good to each other.
Pray for Father's recovery.

And I'll be back as soon as I can.

Jo.

What is it? Is it Father?

No.

It's my hair.

I would feel the same way.

I know you would.

Laurie, when are you going back
to your grandfather?

Very soon.

You've said that a dozen times
in the past month.

Short answers save trouble.

He is expecting you,
so why don't you do it?

Natural depravity, I suppose.

Natural indolence, you mean.

I'll only plague him if I go,

so, I might as well stay and plague you
a little longer. You can bear it.

In fact, I think it agrees with you.

Stop it. Stop.

- What are you doing?
- I'm looking at you.

I mean what do you
intend to do?

- With life?
- Yes.

I've been writing an opera,
I'd be the central figure...

That's a waste of time.

What would you have me do?

Go on and work for your grandfather
and make something of yourself.

You're not playing fair.

Here.

It's very good.

When did you do this one?

It was the day at the beach.

First time I met Fred.

That's right.

What's he doing?

He's in London on business.

He'll be back in a few weeks.

Don't marry him.

What?

Don't marry him.

Why?

Why? You know why.

No. No.

- Yes.
- No.

- Laurie.
- What?

You're being mean.
Stop it! Stop it!

I have been second to Jo
my whole life in everything,

and I will not be the person
you settle for

just because you cannot have her.

I won't do it.

Not when I've spent
my entire life loving you.

I'm making a mold of my foot for Laurie
to remind him I have nice feet.

Mr. Brooke writes that Father
is still very weak, but improving.

Mr. Brooke also says that Mother
is the best nurse a man could ask for.

I wish all the letters were
from Mother, and not Mr. Brooke.

I'm grateful for any letters.

I think the deep purple
is very fitting for Mr. Laurence,

do you agree Amy?

Quite. The design is very cunning.

I had to thank him somehow

for allowing me to play the piano
at his house all the time.

I'm going to town for groceries,

Jo, can you go look into
getting more firewood?

You all haven't been to see
the Hummel's. We should go.

Bethy, we barely have enough
to feed ourselves.

Besides, I have to finish this story.

Marmee said that--

Marmee told us to do lots of things,
but we can't possibly do them all.

But I always go by myself and you haven't
been keeping up with your tasks...

We do. We work.

Don't worry, sweet girl,
we'll find a time.

- But it's been weeks.
- We'll go soon.

Now my foot is stuck!
I can't get it out!

Stop it Jo! I can't get it out!
You'd love me to lose my foot!

Fine, I'll go myself.

Hello. For Mr. Laurence.

Here she comes!

Beth look what they got you--

Here's a letter
from the old gentleman.

Open the note!

Oh, Beth, just look!

Jo, read the letter. I cannot.

"Miss Beth March, I have had
many pairs of slippers in my life,

but I never had any that suited
me so well as yours.

And they will always remind me
of the gentle giver.

I like to pay my debts,
and hope you will accept this gift.

Your grateful friend
and humble servant, James Laurence."

So sweet, your "Humble servant".

- Isn't it beautiful?
- Look how shiny it is!

It has gold, it goes
all the way around...

His handwriting is so beautiful.

And it's got a little drawer here.

Sir, I wanted to thank you for...

You remind me so much
of my little girl.

The piano is yours,
I should've given it to you long ago.

Thank you.

My child, you're burning.

The Hummel's are very sick.

She's resting.

How is she?
Is there anything I can do?

What is it?

- It's scarlet fever.
- What's "scarlet fever"?

I visited the Hummel's,
the baby has died.

Have you all had it before?

Meg and I have, but Amy hasn't.

- She'll have to be sent away.
- I don't want to be sent away!

- I'll see if Aunt March can take her.
- I don't like Aunt March.

It's for your own good, child.

- Should we send for Mother?
- No, we shouldn't worry her.

I've never wished for money
more than now.

Listen, we'll nurse her,
and she'll get better.

She will.

"The post office in the forest
was a capital little institution,

and flourished wonderfully,
for many things passed through it:

poetry and pickles,
music and gingerbread,

invitations, scoldings,
and even puppies."

- It's all about us.
- It is.

I love it.

It's just a little story.

It's nothing like
what you usually write.

- Do you think it's too boring?
- No, it's my favorite one yet.

Really?

- Write me another.
- Yes ma'am!

- And keep writing them.
- I will.

Even when I'm not here.

Don't say that. Don't say--

- Jo, I have to tell you.
- No, you don't.

I've had a very long time
to think about this,

and I'm not afraid.

No.

It's like the tide going out.

It goes out slowly,
but it can't be stopped.

I'll stop it!

I've stopped it before.

You will get better.
Father will get better.

And we'll all be together soon, all right?

We can't stop God's will.

God hasn't met my will yet.
What Jo wills shall be done.

Amy. Come here.

- Yes?
- Come, sit.

If you are very good,
one day this ring will belong to you.

Really?

If you keep being a proper young lady
just see if it doesn't.

You are your family's hope now.

Beth is sick, Jo is a lost cause,

and I hear Meg has had
her head turned by a penniless tutor.

It'll be up to you
to support them all,

and your indigent parents
in their old age.

So, you must marry well.

Save your family.

All right, that's all
I wanted to say to you.

You can go back
and do your little painting.

Hello Aunt March.

That Laurence boy was just here.

He was?

What a disappointment
he's turned out to be.

Must be the Italian in him.

When will he be back?

He's gone, to London.

Why?

What do you need
to discuss with him?

I've just told Fred Vaughn
I wouldn't marry him.

Meg.

I'll come home to help
with the children, I'm so sorry.

I'm just so worried for Beth.

Stay. I asked for leave.
I will take care of the children.

John.

And there's one other thing -

you should send your fabric
to the dressmaker as soon as possible.

I can't--

No, I don't want to hear another word,
I want you to have that dress.

My old coat will be fine
for the winter.

It's all settled.

John, I really can't.
I sold the fabric to Sallie.

You did?

I don't want you to be unhappy.

I couldn't be,

John Brooke is my husband,
and I am his wife.

Hannah!

It's all right. It's all right.

What do we do?

We should send for your mother.

Marmee.

Marmee, she's worse.
I didn't know what else to do.

- Jo, how is she?
- My girls.

My sweet Beth.

Hannah, make a clear broth,
and, Jo, get ice - we need to cool you.

Who's with Father?

John stayed with him.

We need to change the linens.

We are going to move you, sweet girl.

Please fight.

Don't go quietly, fight!

Please, please.
Just fight to the end and be loud!

Don't just quietly go away, Beth!

Marmee!

Marmee! Marmee!

Merry Christmas, Beth.

You're doing the sides first,
and the sides aren't best for my popcorn,

because I'm making a popcorn now.

It's important part.

And you're wasting decorations,
and they are not technically right.

The sides aren't
the most important thing...

Here's another Christmas gift
for the March family.

Oh my God! Father!

My little women.

How you've grown.

Oh, Beth. Merry Christmas, my dear.

Merry Christmas to each of you.

Merry Christmas, Father.

Thank God you're home!

Thank God for you!

Now I can be angry with you
in person.

I can't believe today
is my wedding day.

What's wrong?

Nothing.

Jo.

We can leave.
We can leave right now.

I can make money,
I'll sell stories, I'll do anything:

I'll cook, I'll clean,
I'll work in a factory.

I can make a life for us.

And you, you should be an actress,
and you should have a life on the stage.

Let's just run away together.

I want to get married.

- But why?
- Because I love him.

You will be bored of him in two years,
and we will be interesting forever.

Just because my dreams are different
than yours doesn't mean they're unimportant.

I want a home, and a family,
and I'm willing to work and struggle,

but I want to do it with John.

I just hate that you're leaving me.

Don't leave.

Oh, Jo.

I'm not leaving you.

And besides...

one day, it will be your turn.

I'd rather be a free spinster
and paddle my own canoe.

I would.

I can't believe childhood is over.

It was going to end
one way or another.

And what a happy end.

What excessive promises,
giving yourself away to get the other.

What a gift, always given
before is known

the cost or the reward.

I pronounce you man and wife.

You may kiss the bride.

You don't have to make a fuss.

You don't need to see me
to the carriage.

I'm happy to.

I hope you will be happy now.

That you've ruined your life,
the same way your Mother did

by marrying your father.

My Dear Sister, you are too kind.

And thank you
for today's festivities.

You are most welcome.

Thank you Aunt March.

I don't like to be kissed.

I'm sorry.

You will be sorry when you've tried love
in a cottage and found it a failure.

It can't be worse than some people
find in big houses.

I quite understand
your meaning, missis.

- I don't miss a thing.
- We know this.

And you are not entirely wrong.

I may not always be right,
but I am never wrong.

Here's the only sane member
of the family.

I really can't take
any more of this.

Marmee! Marmee!

Aunt March is going to Europe--

And she wants me
to go with her?

That's wonderful!

Now I know why I spent
all those boring hours reading to her.

No, she wants me to go.

As her companion.

Europe? With you?

Yes, she wants me to work on my art,
and my French, of course.

You don't really like
French though, do you?

That's wonderful, Amy.

Father, I'm going to Europe!

Meg married, Amy off to Europe.

And now that you're a graduate,
you'll be off on a long holiday.

I'm just not good like Beth,
so I'm angry and I'm restless.

You don't have to stay here, Jo.

Why? Should we run off
and join a pirate ship?

No. No!

It's no use, Jo.

Jo, we've got to have it out.

I have loved you ever since
I've known you Jo. I couldn't help it.

And I tried to show it
but you wouldn't let me, which is fine.

But I must make you hear now,
and give me an answer,

because I cannot go on
like this any longer.

I gave up billiards,
I gave up everything you didn't like,

I'm happy I did, it's fine, and I waited,
and I never complained, because I...

I figured you'd love me, Jo.

And I realize I'm not half good enough,
and I'm not this great man--

Yes, you are, you're a great deal
too good for me,

and I'm so grateful to you,
and I'm so proud of you,

I don't see why I can't love you
as you want me to.

I don't know why.

You can't?

No.

I can't... I can't change how I feel.

And it would be a lie to say
I do when I don't.

I'm so sorry, Teddy, I'm so sorry,
but I just can't help it...

I can't love anyone else, Jo.
I only love you.

Teddy, it would be a disaster
if we married--

It wouldn't be a disaster.
Jo, I'd be a perfect saint!

I can't - I've tried it and failed!

Why does everyone expect it then?

Why does your family
and my Grandpa expect it?

Why are you saying this?
Say "yes", and let's be happy together, Jo.

I can't say "yes" truly,
so I'm not going to say it at all.

And you'll see that I'm right, eventually,
and you'll thank me for it.

I'd rather hanged myself
than realize this, Jo.

Teddy!

I would rather be dead.

Teddy, don't say that!

Teddy!

You'll find some
lovely accomplished girl

who will love you and adore you,

and she's gonna make a fine mistress
for your fine house.

But I wouldn't, all right?

Look at me, I'm homely
and I'm awkward--

But I love you, Jo.

And you'd be ashamed of me.

I love you, Jo.

And we would quarrel
because we can't help it, even now.

I'd hate elegant society,
you'd hate my scribbling,

and we would be unhappy,
and we'd wish we hadn't done it,

and everything would be horrid.

Is there anything more?

- No, nothing more.
- All right.

Except that...

Teddy, I don't believe
I will ever marry.

I'm happy as I am.

And I love my liberty too well
to be in any hurry to give it up.

I think you're wrong about that, Jo.
I think you will marry, Jo.

I think you'll find someone,
and love them,

and you will live and die for them
because that's your way, and you will.

And I'll watch.

I don't want to disturb
your writing.

I don't do that anymore.

It didn't save her.

You're much too lonely here, Jo.

Wouldn't you like to go back
to New York?

What about your friend - Friedrich,
wasn't that his name?

No.

I ruined our friendship with my temper,
just as I ruin everything.

I'm sure I'll never see him again.

I doubt that a sincere friend
would be deterred.

I wish that were true.

If I was a girl in a book,
this would all be so easy,

Just give up the world happily.

Laurie is returning, you know.

He is?

There is a letter from Amy,
she's coming home.

She's devastated about Beth.

Aunt March is very ill, so...

Laurie will accompany them.

That's good of him.

- What is it?
- I don't know.

He'll always be quite contempt
with my family.

I don't understand it.

Perhaps I was too quick
in turning him down, Laurie.

Do you love him?

If he asked me again
I think I would say "yes."

Do you think he'll ask me again?

But do you love him?

I care more to be loved.
I want to be loved.

That is not the same as loving.

I know.

I just feel...
I just feel like...

Women...

They have minds, and they have souls
as well as just hearts,

and they've got ambition, and they've got
talent as well as just beauty,

and I'm so sick of people saying
that love is just all a woman is fit for.

I'm so sick of it!

But, I'm... I'm so lonely.

I couldn't let you travel alone
with Aunt March being so sick.

Even if you despise me.

I don't despise you, Laurie.

Beth was the best of us.

I'm not marrying Fred.

I heard about that.

And you are under no obligation
to say anything, or do anything.

I just didn't love him
as I should.

We don't need to talk about it,
we don't need to say anything.

My dear Teddy, I miss you more
than I can express.

I used to think that the worst fate
was to be a wife,

I was young and stupid.

But now I have changed.

The worst fate is to live my life
without you in it.

I was wrong to turn you down
and to run away to New York.

Jo. Jo.

Jo.

Wake up. Wake up.

Teddy! You're back!

Are you glad to see me then?

Yes.

I was worried.

Here, come sit.

How's Amy?

Did she bother you all the way
from Europe with her preening?

Yes, but I liked that.

Where is she now?
Did she not come straight home?

Your mother's got her down at Meg's,
we stopped there on the way back.

There was no getting my wife
out of their clutches.

Your what?

I've... done it now.

It was meant to be a surprise.

We were engaged,
and we were hoping to wait...

That is to say,
now we are man and wife.

You and Amy?

Yes.

Are you in love?

Yes.

Jo, I want to say one thing,
and then we'll put it away forever.

I've always loved you.

But the love I feel for Amy,
it's different.

And I think you were right about this.

I think we would've killed each other.

Yes.

I think it was meant this way.

Oh, Teddy.

You're the only one
who ever calls me that, Jo - Teddy.

What does Amy call you?

My Lord.

That sounds like her.

Well, you look deserving of it.

Can we still be friends, Jo? Please?

Of course, my boy, always.

- Laurie told you?
- Yes. Yes.

Amy, I'm so happy for you.
This was meant to be.

Oh, I'm so relieved, thank you.

I wanted to write, Jo, I wanted to write,
and I wanted to explain everything,

but everything was happening so fast and,
really, I was worried you'd be angry at me.

No. No.

No, you're not angry at me?

Life is too short to be angry
at one's sisters.

I really miss her.

I know.

Thank you.

Mr. Laurence.

Jo.

Oh, Jo.

I couldn't bring myself to...

The house doesn't seem right
without her.

I couldn't go in knowing
she wouldn't be there.

I know I am not half so good
as my sister,

but I'll be a friend to lean on,
if you'll let me.

For Beth

Dear Mr. Dashwood:

Enclosed are the first few chapters
of a piece I've only begun working on.

It could suit as a story for young people,
but I think it is probably quite boring.

However, I'm sending it to you
just in case it has something of value,

though I doubt it. Jo March.

I thought she hated me.

She could still hate you
and leave you the house.

What about you and John?

We can't manage a grand house
like this, it's too big.

I should sell it,
but I'd love to do something

that would really make
Aunt March turn in her grave.

I wouldn't mind that.

A nice turning, just a rotation,
nothing terrible.

What will you do?

I'd like to open a school.

We never had a proper school,
and now there are women's colleges opening

there should be a school. For Daisy.

And what will Demi do?

I'll open a school
for boys and girls, both.

What about writing?

What about it?

What are you working on?

I started something,
but I don't think it's very good.

Everyone likes what you write.

No, they don't.

I do.

It's just about our little life.

So?

Who will be interested in a story
of domestic struggles and joys?

It doesn't have
any real importance, does it?

Maybe, it doesn't seem important
because people don't write about them.

No, writing doesn't confer
importance, it reflects it.

I don't think so.

Writing them will make them
more important.

When did you become so wise?

I always have been, you were just
too busy noticing my faults.

Which were never there, of course.

Dear Miss March: I've read
the chapters you sent,

and I have to agree
they aren't very promising.

But, please send more stories
of the scandalous variety, if you have any.

Or, shall I say, your friend can.

My apologies for the joke,
I couldn't help it.

Jo, come down!

Coming!

I'm starving.

Jo, you might want to wait...

I'm famished.

Jo, dear, you have a guest.

I don't know anyone.

I'm sorry to intrude.

It's you.

Hello.

Hello. I'm Josephine March. I'm Jo.

Josephine, is that you?
Welcome! Welcome!

This is Kitty, and Minny.

And I see that you've
already met our professor.

He's a very accomplished man.

Your mother says that you're a writer.
I keep a diary, you know.

A lot of the interesting people here,
intellectuals and Europeans.

Jo, I hope it is all right,
I got your address from Mrs. Kirke.

Who is this? Who are you?

I'm so sorry to intrude,
I was close by and I thought I'd...

- But I'll be going.
- No!

Please stay! We have
more than enough room.

Can someone tell me
who this man is?

I don't want to be a burden.

- You're not a burden at all!
- Yes, of course. Please.

- I'm Laurie. Who are you?
- I'm Friedrich Bhaer.

We were at the same boarding house
together in New York.

Oh, Jo, he's very handsome.

Do you intend to stay in New York?

No, I've been offered
a professorship in California.

And as I have nothing
keeping me here,

I thought I might go West.

It is new there, and they are less
particular about immigrants.

Perhaps I should go West.

You're not an immigrant,
so perhaps you should stay home.

Oh, I'm going.

This is a beautiful instrument.
Which one of you plays?

It was my sister, Beth.

We all play a little.

But none so well as her.

It is very hard
to lose a sister. I'm sorry.

- Do you play?
- Yes. I do.

It would make us so happy
if you played now,

she wouldn't want
the piano to sit silent.

I don't wish to offend.

Not in the least.

- It was so lovely to meet you.
- Lovely to meet you.

Bye.

- Bye, Laurie.
- Goodbye.

Thank you for everything.

Lovely to have you.

If you ever come to California,
I would love to see you.

I don't know that I will,
but thank you.

Well... goodbye.

Goodbye.

What?

Why are you all
looking at me like that?

What a wonderful man.

I hope he comes back,
he would make a terrific friend for me.

Oh, Father, he wasn't here for you!

No?

- Jo! You love him!
- What? No, I don't.

Yes, you do too!

I am half as smart as you
but I can see it so plainly, you love him.

- Doesn't she love him?
- It's a good instinct, you love him.

I have never seen you so happy.
What else is love?

You need to go after him!
Laurie prepare the horses!

We can catch him
before he gets on the train.

- I'm coming too.
- Yes.

- No, I'm not going!
- Yes, you are!

- Amy is right.
- Exactly!

I never thought
I'd prepare a carriage

to help Jo March
chase a man, but I like it.

He's moving to California!

That was fiction.

He was practically begging
for a reason to stay.

But it's raining outside!

It doesn't matter! Can you come
with me? I need to fix you.

Laurie, can you stop standing there
and go get horses ready?! Thank you.

You never ask about my mother
even when you know I've seen her.

I assume she's still alive.

- But I ask after your mother.
- And I have no idea why.

You're willfully missing the point.

That's true.

- What do they want?
- I have no idea.

- Father are you publishing this?
- What happens to the Little Women?

Tell me you have the rest
of the book!

What?

I'm just trying to fix your hair.

Stop the carriage!
Stop the carriage!

All right. Go! Out! Out!

Go! Go!

Frankly, I don't see
why she didn't marry the neighbor.

Because the neighbor
marries her sister.

Right. Right. Of course.

So, who does she marry?

No one. She doesn't marry
either of them.

No! No!

That won't work at all.

She says the whole book
that she doesn't want to marry.

Who cares?

Girls want to see women married!
Not consistent!

No. It isn't the right ending.

The right ending
is the one that sells.

Trust me, if you decide
to end your delightful book

with your heroine a spinster,
no one will buy it.

It won't be worth printing.

I suppose marriage has always been
an economic proposition. Even in fiction.

It's romance.

It's mercenary.

Just end it that way, will you?

Fine.

Go! Go!

Kiss him, Ms. March!

Jo!

I don't want you to leave.
I want you to stay.

- You do?
- Yes.

Then, I would never leave
if you wished me to stay.

No, I want you to stay.

I have nothing to give you, Jo.

It doesn't matter.

My hands are empty.

They're not empty.

I love it. It's romantic.

It's very moving.
That's very emotional.

Thank you.

We can call the chapter

"Under the Umbrella."

- That's good.
- Perfect.

Now there is the question
of the contract.

I'm prepared to give you
5% of the royalties.

So, I get 5% of the profit?

Five percent of the net profits.
After I recoup.

What about a payment upfront?

I'm the one taking the risk
in printing this book.

Yes, but it's my book.

And if it does well,
we'll both make money.

If not, I can stay in business.

So, I get nothing? If it fails?

No, I'll give you 500 dollars right now
to buy out the copyright.

The copyright?

That's the right for re-printing,
that sort of thing.

Sequels, characters for other stories...

Might that be worth something?

Well, only if it's a success.

I see. It seems like something
I would want to own, you know.

Didn't your say your family
needed the money more immediately?

Yes, they do, which is why
I wanted upfront payment.

No. It's too risky.
I'll only pay for the copyright.

You keep your 500 dollars,
and I'll keep the copyright.

Also, I want 10% of royalties.

5.5 percent, that's very generous.

- Nine percent.
- Six percent, and that's it.

Mr. Dashwood, If I'm going to sell
my heroine into marriage for money,

I might as well get some of it.

6.6 percent.

Done.

And you don't need to decide
about the copyright right now.

No, I've decided.
I want to own my own book.