Little Woods

About Little Woods

"Little Woods" is a critically acclaimed neo-western drama that was released in 2019, written and directed by Nia DaCosta. The film, set in Little Woods, North Dakota, USA, examines the societal problems of working-class people, particularly women. Nia DaCosta portrays both the personal and systematic struggles that two impoverished and estranged sisters, Ollie and Deb, face when they are pushed to the limits by their mother's death, and against the backdrop of an economic crisis.

Making / Production

"Little Woods" is Nia DaCosta's debut feature. It's a compelling story about resilience that is distinctly personal, exploring themes of socio-economic struggles, family, and sisterhood. The rustic and stoic landscapes of North Dakota play an important backdrop to underline the harsh realities faced by the characters.

Actors

• Tessa Thompson as Ollie. Thompson shines in her role as Ollie, an industrious woman who is on probation for illegal activities she's committed out of desperation to support herself and her sick mother.
• Lily James as Deb. James gives a powerful performance as Deb, Ollie’s pregnant and struggling sister, who is juggling her limited resources to raise her son while dealing with a difficult relationship.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Little Woods" is Nia DaCosta's directorial debut.
• Despite the film's setting in North Dakota, it was actually filmed in Texas.
• This film marks the first time that Tessa Thompson and Lily James starred together as lead characters.

Awards

"Little Woods" won the Nora Ephron Prize at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival. This prestigious award honours a woman filmmaker whose work exemplifies the spirit and vision of the legendary filmmaker and writer Nora Ephron.

Quotes

• "We used to make good team." - Deb
• "It’s funny. You work your whole life to get out of a hole. And then, once you’re out, you get put right back in." - Ollie

Music, Soundtrack

The soundtrack for "Little Woods" was composed by Brian McOmber. His music significantly marks emotional points in the film and builds the intense atmosphere.