The Grapes of Wrath (1940)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

The Grapes of Wrath is a 1940 American drama film directed by John Ford and adapted from John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1939 novel of the same name. The film stars Henry Fonda, Jane Darwell, and John Carradine. Set during the Great Depression, the story follows the Joad family as they travel from the Dust Bowl of Oklahoma to California in search of a better life.

The Story Unfolds

The Joads’ Departure

The film begins with Tom Joad (Henry Fonda) being released from prison after serving a sentence for manslaughter. He returns to his family’s farm in Oklahoma, only to find that they have been evicted due to the Dust Bowl and economic hardship. The Joad family, led by Ma Joad (Jane Darwell), decides to travel to California after hearing promises of work and a better life.

The Journey to California

The Joads embark on a difficult journey along Route 66, facing numerous hardships including mechanical failures, lack of food and water, and the death of Grandpa Joad (Charley Grapewin). Along the way, they meet other displaced families and realize that they are not alone in their struggle. The journey is marked by a growing sense of solidarity and determination to survive.

The Climax and Resolution

Harsh Realities in California

Upon reaching California, the Joads discover that the promises of plentiful jobs and good living conditions were false. They encounter exploitation, low wages, and poor living conditions in migrant camps. Tom becomes increasingly aware of the social injustices faced by the migrant workers and is influenced by Casy (John Carradine), a former preacher turned labor organizer.

Standing Up for Justice

Tom’s involvement in labor activism grows after Casy is killed during a strike. Tom avenges Casy’s death and becomes a fugitive, ultimately deciding to leave his family to protect them. The Joads move to a government-run camp with better conditions, but their future remains uncertain.

The Conclusion

Endurance and Hope

The Grapes of Wrath ends with Ma Joad expressing her enduring hope and determination, symbolizing the resilience of the human spirit. Despite their hardships, the Joads remain united and committed to finding a better life.

Movie Ending

The Grapes of Wrath ends on a hopeful note, with the Joad family moving to a better camp and Ma Joad’s famous speech about perseverance and the strength of the common people.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in The Grapes of Wrath.

Type of Movie

The Grapes of Wrath is a drama film that combines elements of social realism and family narrative, focusing on themes of poverty, displacement, and social justice.

Cast

• Henry Fonda as Tom Joad
• Jane Darwell as Ma Joad
• John Carradine as Jim Casy
• Charley Grapewin as Grandpa Joad
• Dorris Bowdon as Rosasharn (Rose of Sharon) Joad
• Russell Simpson as Pa Joad

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Alfred Newman, whose music complements the film’s emotional and dramatic elements.

Filming Locations

The Grapes of Wrath was filmed in various locations, including:

• Needles, California: For desert scenes.
• McAlester, Oklahoma: For early scenes depicting the Joads’ farm.
• Lamont, California: For the migrant camps.

Awards and Nominations

The Grapes of Wrath received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Director (John Ford) and Best Supporting Actress (Jane Darwell). Nominated for Best Picture, Best Actor (Henry Fonda), Best Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and Best Sound Recording.
• National Board of Review: Won Best Film, Best Director, and Best Acting (Henry Fonda).

Behind the Scenes Insights

• John Steinbeck’s novel was carefully adapted for the screen, with significant input from Steinbeck himself to maintain its authenticity.
• Henry Fonda’s portrayal of Tom Joad became one of his most iconic roles, cementing his status as a leading actor of his generation.
• The film was produced during a time of significant social upheaval in the United States, resonating deeply with contemporary audiences.

Inspirations and References

The Grapes of Wrath is based on John Steinbeck’s novel, which reflects the broader themes of the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and the plight of migrant workers. The film highlights issues of social justice, poverty, and resilience.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of The Grapes of Wrath closely follows John Ford’s vision, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Tom Joad’s return to his family farm and his reunion with Ma Joad.
• The family’s departure from Oklahoma and their journey along Route 66.
• The hardships faced in California, including exploitation and poor living conditions.
• Tom’s growing involvement in labor activism and his confrontation with the authorities.
• Ma Joad’s final speech about endurance and hope.

Iconic Quotes

• “I’ll be all around in the dark – I’ll be everywhere. Wherever you can look – wherever there’s a fight, so hungry people can eat, I’ll be there.” – Tom Joad
• “We’re the people that live. They can’t wipe us out. They can’t lick us. We’ll go on forever, Pa, ’cause we’re the people.” – Ma Joad

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film includes subtle references to contemporary social issues and the plight of migrant workers, grounding its narrative in real historical context.
• The use of authentic locations and non-professional actors in some roles adds to the film’s realism and impact.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately $800,000, and it grossed over $2.5 million worldwide.
• Jane Darwell’s performance as Ma Joad earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
• The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Why Watch?

The Grapes of Wrath offers a powerful and emotionally resonant portrayal of the struggles faced by migrant workers during the Great Depression, featuring standout performances, particularly by Henry Fonda and Jane Darwell, and masterful direction by John Ford. Its blend of social realism, family drama, and historical context makes it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and socially conscious storytelling.

Director’s Other Movies

John Ford also directed:

• Stagecoach (1939)
• The Searchers (1956)
• How Green Was My Valley (1941)
• The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
• My Darling Clementine (1946)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Of Mice and Men (1939)
• How Green Was My Valley (1941)
• The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
• On the Waterfront (1954)
• 12 Angry Men (1957)