Tortilla Flat (DVD)

Pilon, Danny, the Pirate -- paisanos all -- live a free-spirited life near seaside Monterey. Then Danny becomes a man of property, the heir to two modest houses and a watch from his grandfather. Too bad that inheritance isn't something worthwhile, like wine or money. But a gorgeous, newly arrived cannery worker named Sweets thinks a man of property may himself be worthwhile and marriageable. Spencer Tracy, John Garfield, Hedy Lamarr, Frank Morgan -- stars all -- bring Hollywood gloss to this affectionate adaptation of John Steinbeck's breakthrough novel (and Morgan was a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nominee* for his charming work). "Victor Fleming has directed with deep understanding. All of the actors -- yes, all of them -- have delineated robust characters" (Bosley Crowther, The New York Times).

• drama