The Grapes of Wrath – 1940

The Grapes of Wrath (1940) –  A family of “Okies”, farmers from Oklahoma, are forced off their farms as the banks foreclose during the Depression, move west in search of a better life.  What they find will challenge their love for one another and their essential beliefs in the American Dream.

Directed by John Ford                                    Starring – Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, John Carradine

You begin with a John Steinbeck novel, turn the screenplay version over to John Ford (an interesting choice given the very liberal slant of the story and Ford’s deeply held conservatism) and then turn to a brilliant cast to tell the story.  What you get is a classic movie.

It’s odd to have these parts of our national history brought back to light.  Even at the time, much of the violence and neglect for this displaced Americans was swept under the rug.  Daryl F. Zanuck, who produced the movie, did some research on the actual conditions in some of the camps and discovered that they were worse than Steinbeck described.  Grapes of Wrath  is as valuable as a history lesson as it is a morality play.

And don’t fool yourself, there is a strong moral message in this movie.  Delivered largely through the ex-con Tom Joad (Henry Fonda) and his unassuming “Ma” (Jane Darwell, a role that won her an Oscar).  Mrs. Joad is simple, salt of the earth folk.  Her foundation is solid and that foundation supports Tom, even when he plans to butt heads with authority.  Add in Carradine’s rather quirky ex-preacher turned labor agitator Casy and you have the core of a great story.

The interesting thing is that you may end up talking more about the issues than the movie when you’re done.  My bet is that all involved would be fine with that.  But don’t pass up the chance to enjoy a truly top flight movie.

Why I Liked It – Brilliant social commentary of then and a biting reminder of the pitfalls that may be ahead of our nation today.  A truly stunning accomplishment from all involved.

Why You Will Like It – Henry Fonda.  This is his movie from beginning to end.  Tom Joad is the real vision of the “All American Boy”.  He has some flaws but believes in what our country could and should be.

Rating – ***** Highest Recommendation