It’s not fair to say if you’ve read the book, you’ve seen the movie, but it’s also not wholly untrue. Greg Sinise’s version of the classic tale by John Steinback adds little new details to the story, so the actors have some heavy lifting to do in bringing it to life. Thankfully, they do a fine job. Sinise and Malkovich strike an affecting camaraderie, believable till its tragic end. Malkovich has the meatiest role as the mentally challenged Lennie, and to his credit, he gives the character sensitivity and grace. He isn’t always believable (or maybe I’ve just seen him in too many wry and manipulative roles), but his turn as a sweet giant is always touching. For a more recent generation, the film might bring to mind the ethical question famously asked by the NBC series The Good Place: what do we owe each other? What does George owe his disabled cousin and how far is he willing to put his life over his own? Though the parable at the core of this film is familiar, it’s nonetheless thought-provoking and heartbreaking.
"Well-mounted and very traditional, Of Mice and Men honorably serves John Steinbeck's classic story of two Depression-era drifters without bringing anything new to it."
— Todd McCarthy
Two drifters, one a gentle but slow giant, try to make money working the fields during the Depression so they can fulfill their dreams.
In Depression-era California, George and his cousin Lennie find a new job as laborers on a farm and work hard to achieve their dream of one day tilling land of their own.
I don’t think there can be a version of the story that fleshes out the sole female character (who doesn’t even have a name). She’s a product of her time, and her thin characterization serves as a reminder of the attitudes of the time. Doesn’t mean I still can’t be insulted though!
It’s a very faithful adaptation, which comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Oscars
4 nominations
Berlin
1 nomination
Nat. Board of Review
1 win
