The Grapes of Wrath [VHS] (6301797906)

The Grapes of Wrath [VHS]
from 20th Century Fox
starring Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, John Carradine, Charley Grapewin, Dorris Bowdon
directed by John Ford

Features:

• Black & White
• Closed-captioned
• Original recording reissued
• NTSC

Editorial Review:

Ranking No. 21 on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 greatest American films, this 1940 classic is a bit dated in its noble sentimentality, but it remains a luminous example of Hollywood classicism from the peerless director of mythic Americana, John Ford. Adapted by Nunnally Johnson from John Steinbeck's classic novel, the film tells a simple story about Oklahoma farmers leaving the depression-era dustbowl for the promised land of California, but it's the story's emotional resonance and theme of human perseverance that makes the movie so richly and timelessly rewarding. It's all about the humble Joad family's cross-country trek to escape the economic devastation of their ruined farmland, beginning when Tom Joad (Henry Fonda) returns from a four-year prison term to discover that his family home is empty. He's reunited with his family just as they're setting out for the westbound journey, and thus begins an odyssey of saddening losses and strengthening hopes. As Ma Joad, Oscar-winner Jane Darwell is the embodiment of one of America's greatest social tragedies and the "Okie" spirit of pressing forward against all odds (as she says, "because we're the people"). A documentary-styled production for which Ford and cinematographer Gregg Toland demanded painstaking authenticity, The Grapes of Wrath is much more than a classy, old-fashioned history lesson. With dialogue and scenes that rank among the most moving and memorable ever filmed, it's a classic among classics--simply put, one of the finest films ever made. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

• Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0

• Grapes of Wrath
  I bought this as an accompaniment to teaching John Steinbeck for my English 11 classes. It is a well-done film and a classic.

• Grapes of Wrath - Excellent
  When I ordered this I received this within 3 days and it arrived in pristine condition! I was VERY pleased on both the timeliness and the condition on which it arrived. Thanks!

• Another timeless classic that shouldn't be forgotten
  We all know that Citizen Kane, The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, Gone with the Wind, Raging Bull, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Network, No Country for Old Men, and There Will Be Blood are considered some of the all-time greatest films ever made. These films have been referenced and parodied numerous times, and some of them have very faithful followers (like how I am with The Godfather films). The Grapes of Wrath, on the other hand, hasn't really reached the same... more info

• Grapes of Wrath a Classic
  I was brought up in the fifties and taught that the strong, silent type is the model for young men to emulate. Henry Fonda fits that role to a "T" plus he's got smarts and soul. Plus there are great character and supporting actors (including the female playing Fonda's mother) in this movie. Your film collection is not complete without this masterpiece. I named my daughter Rose of Sharon while going through hard times though they weren't near as bad as those of Dust Bowl dwellers.

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