Of Mice and Men (1939)

 

 

A mentally disabled giant and his level headed guardian find work at a sadistic cowboy's ranch in depression era America. 

Arguably the best adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel is realistic, heart-felt and effective in its rendition of the tragedy; among overall good performances Lon Chaney Jr shines in the role of Lennie Small.

Halliwell***: "A strange and unexpected tragedy which has strength and is very persuasively made but seems somehow unnecessary."

Maltin****: "Chaney gives best performance of his career...John Steinbeck's morality tale remains intact in sensitive screen version."  

The Strange Love of Martha Ivers (1946)

A man is reunited with his childhood friend and her husband, who believe he knows the truth about the death of her rich aunt years earlier.

High-pitched melodrama with Noir elements takes its intricate plot to its bitter ending; the star cast make it work.

On rewatching: Indeed a pretty good Noir melodrama with a superb cast.

Halliwell**: "Irresistible star melodrama which leaves no stone unturned; compulsive entertainment of the old school."

Maltin***: "Gripping melodrama..."

The Strange Love of Martha Ivers (1946)

A man is reunited with his childhood friend and her husband, who believe he knows the truth about the death of her rich aunt years earlier.

High-pitched melodrama with Noir elements takes its intricate plot to its bitter ending; the star cast make it work.

Halliwell**: "Irresistible star melodrama which leaves no stone unturned; compulsive entertainment of the old school."

Maltin***: "Gripping melodrama..."