When we come across bossy dominant personalities, we often wonder what made them that way, and the new movie “Little” examines the roots behind one dominating bossy lady Jordan Sanders in particular.
Jordan Sanders is smart beyond her years and sticks out among her peers, but after being humiliated by them she vows to grow up to be in control. As an adult Jordan (played by Regina Hall) is dominating, rude and consumed by power. But as she gets too big for her britches she is literally cut down to size being transformed back into her powerless thirteen-year-old self (played by Marsai Martin). Her assistant April (Issa Rae) who she grossly mistreated assumes a guardian role over teen Jordan. April finds her power and takes charge.
Fourteen-year-old Marsai Martin who takes over for Regina Hall as young Jordan shines capturing the over the top controlling yet stylish adult persona Hall delivers while still bringing her young teen essence to the character to remind viewers that she is in fact still very young. With Little, Issa Rae is bringing her tv series brand of comedy to the big screen after her last movie appearance in the drama The Hate U Give, creating in April a character that is both a loyal friend and surrogate aunt. Eleven-year-old JD McCrary is also a rising talent to look out for as Issac, young Jordan’s peer who suffers from a speech impediment except when he sings having a voice that can make him a music star in the future, a voice that surprises coming from such a little guy.
A unique element of the film is that it shows black women as self-made technology entrepreneurs which could help encourage young women who watch the film to pursue STEM careers. Also, the film makes sure to include subtle nods to producer Will Packer’s previous film work, as well as references to modern pop culture delivered in a comedic tongue in cheek fashion and at times offering throwback references to 90’s R&B and black films treasured in black culture.
The film hits theaters this Friday.
