REVIEW: It’s Marsai Martin’s World To Rule And Little is Just the Beginning

It’s Marsai Martin’s world and we’re just living in it! Friday, April 12, her film Little arrives in theaters and if you weren’t already aware of Martin’s talents, you will be now. Little is the story of Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall), a no nonsense, intense woman who owns her own tech company and April (Issa Rae), her timid, overworked assistant.

Jordan is the epitome of a bad boss, stomping over those around her until she crosses paths with a young girl she can’t push around. Instead she ends up on the receiving end of the young girl’s wish to make Jordan “little” to deal with Jordan’s nasty attitude. The next day it’s quite clear Jordan has more to worry about than potentially losing her biggest client when she wakes up to find she is 13 again. Jordan enlists the help of April to figure out how to change Jordan back and how to survive the difficulties of school bullies, a child protective services agent, and a client meeting that could determine the fate of Jordan’s company.

The story is stop and go at moments and never quite finds a cohesive rhythm. Yet even with those minor hiccups, director Tina Gordon capitalizes on creating a feel-good, comedy film. One that will leave the audience with a reminder to never be afraid of being who you really are, even as one grows into adulthood.

Marsai Martin shines as the “little” version of Jordan. She is so natural in front of the camera, a talent rarely seen in an actor at such a young age. Martin’s skill is especially amplified when she is acting alongside the other young people in the film. And when she goes toe-toe with the “adults” she declares herself a force to be reckoned with.

Rae comes in as Jordan’s assistant, April and her comedic timing could not be better. She plays well with both Hall and Martin and does an excellent job of showcasing her own character’s growth from an insecure dreamer to a woman unafraid of pitching her idea. Hall as the “big” version of Jordan, plays Jordan’s intensity to a T. “Big” Jordan’s behavior is appalling and Hall executes her role with ease.

Little is the brainchild from Marsai Martin. She first pitched the idea to Kenya Barris, creator of her show black-ish, when she was only 10 years old. Martin also pulls double duty, not only as one of the stars in the flick but as an executive producer, as well. Her creation of Little is a great reminder that even though you may be small, you still have the power to do big.

Little is a good film with an even better message. While it does have fluidity issues, it’s humor and all-star cast lift the movie up. May this be the first of many wonderful creations from Marsai Martin! If you’re looking for a movie to see with friends or your mom, this is the one for you.

Grade: B+

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