In a Guardian series where writers champion their go-to comfort films, the author explains why Gillian Armstrong's 1994 adaptation of Little Women serves as their feelgood movie, despite it reliably reducing them to tears. They contrast this with their refusal to rewatch Interstellar, which they find too distressing, arguing that Little Women's sadness instead offers a cathartic release that leaves them feeling content and full-hearted.

The piece traces the story's roots to Louisa May Alcott's 1868 novel about four March sisters coming of age during the American civil war, noting its enduring cultural resonance and repeated adaptations across film, TV and stage. The writer highlights standout performances from the 1994 cast, including Winona Ryder, Susan Sarandon and Claire Danes, and singles out Beth's death as the film's emotional gut-punch, a moment so iconic it was even referenced in an episode of Friends.