We were gripped from the outset by the unusual tension of this superbly-crafted film, and by the end we were moved to the depths. Malkovitch and Sinise are impeccable, with a great supporting cast - watch Ray Walston. This is an actor-director film that succeeds - and how!
The novel is a must read and the film not far from this. John Steinbeck's 1930's story about two ranch hands drifting from farm to farm during the Depression is outstanding. Their hopes and dreams for a better future is heartbreaking and so is the ending - if you don't like reading here's the opportunity to see this American classic.
You would be wrong to think that a PG rated film lacked bite and that a film made 23 years ago had poor production. This is a story told with immense tenderness and fine balance. I think a parent letting their 10 year old watch this should not underestimate the heart tearing sadness of a well performed tragedy. Personally I think nudity and swearing are not nearly so affecting as beautifully acted suffering and gently performed hardship.