Of Mice & Men Reviews

• A poignant, beautiful adaptation of Steinbeck.

  
  By A1FG91CM8221X1 on 2001-01-01
  Gary Sinise's "Of Mice and Men" was virtually ignored by critics and public when it was first released, and I have never known why. It strikes me as one of the truly great cinematic adaptations of a literary classic. The screenplay is remarkably faithful to both the letter and spirit of Steinbeck; the photography by Kenneth MacMillan is heartbreakingly beautiful; and the performances by Sinise, John Malkovich and Ray Walston are almost unbearably poignant. My sister, a high-school English teacher, shows this film to all of her classes, and all of them have loved it. This is the rare movie that really imparts the flavor and significance of the novel on which it is based.
  
  

• Actors Born for These Roles!!

  
  By ALS0041SS519N on 2006-01-01
  I cannot think of a movie adaptation of a "classic" novel in which the actors were more suited for their roles than OF MICE AND MEN (THE CRUCIBLE is close. . .). No offense to Burgess Meredith (from the 1939 version), but John Malkovich was born to play this role (Lennie)! His physical mannerisms (walking, sitting, working in the fields, etc.), his vocal stylings, and his slightly cross-eyed status all contribute to the overwhelming "Lennie-ness" he conveys. His smile is the one I see when I think of George telling the "tend the rabbits" story; his voice is what I hear when I read the book now. Malkovich IS Lennie (or vice versa. . .). Gary Sinise is perfect as the quiet and understated George--he never tries to steal the show but lets the script and the plot situations stay in top priority position. The supporting actors are all extremely good, from Curly, his wife, Candy, Crooks, Slim, and the farm hands--no weak links in the chain whatsoever, which is rare. Exceptional performances all the way around, with great leadership from the two primary actors.
  
  The script is as good as you can possibly get from an adaptation. It is not "word-for-word," but it is close enough for me as a high school English teacher. The differences, both additions and omissions, are not significant enough to draw any criticism for me, and they provide for interesting analysis (compare/contrast) for my students.
  
  Despite the exceptional quality of this movie, the kids still like it!! Some very good movies are just too "good" for high school students to appreciate (THE GREAT GATSBY comes to mind), but this one hits them hard. They identify very easily with George and Lennie's plight (with some help from a history lesson in Depression era economics), Lennie (Malkovich) is an incredibly likable guy, despite his obvious weaknesses and social/mental deficiencies; George scores major points from the kids for his incredibly kind treatment (for the most part) of Lennie. The students are drawn to the very compelling social situation into which Lennie's actions force the two workers. The climax of the movie is shattering. Even though they know what is coming, the visual realization is difficult to watch without emotional reaction. I believe Steinbeck would have given Sinise "two thumbs up" for the last ten minutes of the movie, in particular.
  
  Bottom Line: You're not going to find a much more compelling story, either in print or in a movie. The themes may seem slightly outdated when looked at in the microcosm of the Depression Era, but Steinbeck presented a big picture with these two characters and their plight that even today's kids can appreciate. Worth a rental for sure. Worth a purchase for me. Worth a purchase for every high school in the country!
  
  

• John Malkovich and Gary Sinise Play Roles to Perfection

  
  By AILBDL6ATVDCJ on 2004-06-29
  If you have read the book but haven't seen the movie, you are making a (as Donald Trump would say) "HUGE" mistake. Acting was created so Gary Sinise and John Malkovich could play these roles! And I really mean that.

  I have read John Steinbeck's novel a few times. I am seriously bothered by the constant "using the Lord's name in vain" in all of Steinbeck's novel, but that doesn't discount the fact that he is a great writer - one of the best of all time. When I finally got to watch the movie, I was blown away by what a great job Malkovich and Sinise did playing their characters. But I was even more blown away by the rest of the actors ability to step up to the plate too. Every character was just as I pictured them in my head.

  There are a few scenes that are not exactly as they were in the book: Curley's wife confronts George while he is alone in the barn...that's not in the book. Candy walks in on Lennie and Crook in Crook's room which is not in the movie. But these little changes matter not...the soul of each character is captured perfectly by this amazing movie!

  Lennie and George are partners in their walk through life, and they couldn't be more opposite: Lennie (Malkovich) is a child in a big man's body, and George (Sinise) is the quick thinking (though never quite quick enough) sidekick determined to watch after his friend. The two actors are amazing on screen; I could almost swear they were having a contest to see who could actually (really) change in to their character. I think it was a tie!

  I wish I could give it six stars - not an option though.

  See ya next review!
  www.therunninggirl.com
  
  

• A great modern interpretation...

  
  By A1UWWSFQYCE8QI on 1999-12-17
  This movie is definately worth the five stars, even with certain flaws. I agree with the idea that the fight scene could use a little work, as it didn't capture the emotion of the fight as the book did. It was too... quiet? Something to that effect. The rest of the movie is wonderful, as it is sad. But the humanitarian aspect at the end is very well thought-out, and really captures the essence of the meaning of Lennie's death.

  Truly an inspiration, and a good example of Sinese's directing and acting talent. Of course Malkovich has done quite well in this film. Really an all-star cast, and all-star character portrayals.
  
  

• Of Rabbits and Movies

  
  By on 2000-03-26
  I put off watching this movie for many years. I figured, what was the point? I had read the book "Of Mice and Men", watched earlier movie versions and seen it performed on stage. Why sit through yet another version? Finally one day at the video rental store I decided to take a chance and rent it. I am very, very glad I did.

  So why sit through another version? Because it is extremely well done. Gary Sinise and John Malkovich are powerful in the leads, Sherilyn Fenn has never been more appealing and Ray Walston will break your heart.

  This is just plain good storytelling and good movie making. I guess like Lennie never getting tired of hearing George talk about the rabbits, I'll never get tired of seeing a good version of this classic story.
  
  

• Ah, if 6 stars were available........
  By A1HUBEP5DJ6W51 on 2000-04-07
  To put it simply, this is possibly the most overlooked film of the 1990's. Never before (or since) have i ever PAID to see a movie in the theatre 4 times. One of the most simplistic enthralling moviegoing experiences one could ever hope to find. This film ranks on my top 5 films of all time, as modern films touch us so seldom, you must recognize a crowning acheivement. I agree with a review below that the cinematography is one of a kind. The blowing barley fields, periwinkle skies and dusty roads are almost felt by the viewer upon watching. I do not think there is a comparison to be made with the 1939 version. Malkovich acts circles around Lon Chaney and Gary Sinise's masterful subtle performance makes Burgess Meredith look foolish. Such a shame that more people did not find this treasure while in the theatres. Believe it or not, when I first met my future husband, he informed me that not only had he seen this version of "Of Mice & men" (Which was an absolute first for me, I thought I was the only one for a while) He had given it 4 stars in his personal review. Needless to say, I had a feeling that I had found the perfect match for myself. THIS is what filmmaking is all about people. Please take note.......
  
  
• A wonderful adaptation of the classic story
  By A1JU3WIYEPVGBU on 1999-11-17
  Of Mice and Men is one of my all-time favorite books. It has always amazed me that such a short story has so much power to evoke raw emotions. I guess that we are all touched by loneliness. The movie adaptation captures much of the power of the book.
  
  
• a film you will never forget...
  By A24LXUGZ6OTCDT on 2005-10-19
  When I was growing up, my mother taught me many wise lessons. One that I'll never forget is the importance of compassion. "It's easy to love people who are attractive and charming," she'd say. "A truly great person," she'd remind me, "cares for those who aren't so easy or pleasant to love." Perhaps her words are the reason I fell in love with the book thirty years ago.
  The movie, now over a decade old, is as powerful as the book. I have taught high school for 23+ years, and no other film I've ever shown has had this impact. Sixteen and seventeen year olds are a pretty tough audience; each year when I show this I am reminded of the universal language and educational impact of good cinema. Quite often, the bell rings for the change of classes and students remain in their seats. They laugh out loud at times and almost always leave with moist eyes when the film ends. Many have asked to borrow the movie to share with family and friends. I literally wore out the VHS tape with so much use. Now, it is the DVD I share with them. I honestly believe this film has the potential to introduce young and old alike to classic literature while reminding them of the complexities of the human condition.
  
  
• A strong adaptation of the classic, beautiful story
  By AAUC7ROHVUTLE on 2000-05-15
  I read "Of Mice and Men" for my English GCSE course,and I still can't get my mind around how simple and perfect it is as abook. Gary Sinise's film is a truthful adaptation, with only some slight changes, and captures the mood of the book pretty well. I have to say that the most moving scene for me is still the final one. It brings tears to my eyes, every time. The cinematography is beautiful, all green foliage and crisp golden wheat - the use of light is particularly effective in moments such as the pivotal barn scene, where the golden beams peering through the darkened slats of wood make the picture both shadowy and light at the same time ... John Malkovich is excellent as the retarded Lennie - it is always difficult to accept watching a well-known and intelligent actor play a retard, but he manages to defeat the viewer's preconceptions, and he convincingly shows Lennie's childishness, his incomprehension. Gary Sinise is perfect as George: physically suited, subtle and deeply moving. Hehe ... now for the inevitable nit-picking. The main problem - though not so much a problem as a bit too much of a good thing - is that the setting seems to have been evoked so caringly it is almost too lavish. It threatens to make the workers' lifestyle seem too attractive, not more detached and monotonous as it appears in the book. The support cast, while good are maybe sometimes too obviously sympathetic - Curley's wife's mean streak has been played down, and Slim seems more ordinary, less detached and "majestic" than in the book. These are minor flaws though. In fact, the film's structure is quite sparse, and does not fall into the trap that other adaptations can, of sprawling or simply relying on the book's clout and key scenes to see them through. All in all, a pretty faithful adaptation of a beyond-excellent story, well worth watching if you love the original book!
  
  
• An American Classic
  By A1RDZ6REAH74M on 2002-02-28
  This is a truly excellent version of Steinbeck's classic, directed by actor Gary Sinise several years before "Apollo 13" and "Forrest Gump" made him a recognized star. Sinise plays George, the friend and travelling companion of simple-minded Lenny. Their performances are excellent, as is the supporting cast, especially Joe Morton (Crooks), Casey Siemaszko (Curley), Ray Walston (Candy) and John Terry (Slim). The visuals are simply stunning -- unlike the 1939 black and white version, the beautiful colors give the ranch and its surrounds a life of their own. Mark Isham wrote the haunting soundtrack music.

  The only negative about this DVD has nothing to do with the film itself, but with the skimpiness of the DVD release. While MGM has seen fit to release special editions of forgettable (but apparently marketable) titles such as "Phantasm" and "Antitrust," this stunning version of an American classic does not merit a Dolby 5.1 remix or any special features. This is truly a shame, especially considering that Sinise has indicated he would be willing to go to work on a special edition and restore deleted scenes, provide a commentary, etc. Shame on you, MGM. Nonetheless, this DVD is well worth owning for the film itself.
  
  

• MASTERFUL ADAPTATION OF CLASSIC STEINBECK NOVEL
  By A1L8HRCM60W0W7 on 2003-10-14
  What a masterful and faithful portrayal of Steinbeck's classic (eponymous) novel. The screenplay brings to life the tragic yet uplifting story of loyalty and the kind of bond that can grow between men that we are often reluctant to acknowledge, much less show.

  Aside from the story, the cast is what really makes this film. I have always held a soft spot for Gary Sinise after his role in Forrest Gump, wherein his character portrayed another facet of the bonding between men made brothers by cruel circumstance, yet can grow and flourish as the years and other circumstances come to pass. Here, as Lenny's friend and protector against a world that baffles and confuses him, he shows the kind of rough-edged tenderness and affection that both endears us to his plight, and fills us with the dread of what we know must come between the men.

  John Malkovich shows his range as an actor by bringing to life the dull-witted but pure-hearted Lenny, in a way that will tug at your heartstrings. I found myself both laughing (in a sad way) at Lenny's ineptness in dealing with a world clearly more confusing than his limited wits can manage, and crying over his being targeted for taunting and abuse by cruel and crude men, and ultimately done in by his brute strength when it was lacking the direction and temper given by his friend George.

  A pleasant surprise was Ray Walston as the aged but gentle and good-hearted ranch hand Candy, who has no one in life to love but his old sheepdog, who, like him, he knows, must ultimately be "put down" because of age and the wear and tear that a life of hard labor has worn down. The scene of his finally surrendering his faithful canine companion to be euthanized by a gunshot to the back of the head by another well-meaning field hand is very heartbreaking. Having grown up with the "Uncle Martin" of "My Favorite Martian" Walston, seeing his adept performance in a dramatic role gave me a new appreciation for his versatility as a character actor.

  Those who watch this film should allow plenty of time alone to view it straight through with no interruptions. Swallow your pride and keep a box of tissues handy, and some time afterwards for quiet contemplation and "recovery."
  
  

• 262-11 Summer: Assignment 5
  By A12H9K92NTTZHQ on 2005-07-26
  The setting took placed during the Depression-era in California. George and Lennie are two lonely men who found work in a ranch while keeping away from trouble, but as much as they tried doing just that, something tragic happened.
  
  Of Mice and Men is an adaptation of a novel by John Steinbeck. The film producers did a great job converting the novel into a film. There are scenes that were not from the novel and vice-versa. But the film still did a great job with representing the book as much as possible.
  
  The two main characters are George, played by Gary Sinise, and his impeded friend Lennie, a character played by John Malkovich. Their dream is to own a land and in order to pursue that dream, both forlorn men decided to work in a ranch, while trying to avoid their boss' seductive wife. Lennie, who has good intentions, got himself in a dilemma when he inadvertently killed the wife of his boss's son. In the end George had to slay Lennie in order to avoid the torment by other people. Every actor did a marvelous job portraying the characters. The music for the final scenes insinuates the tragic ending amazingly.
  
  I would recommend the film to children ages 13 and up. But I would suggest reading the book first since there are some parts that are not integrated in the film.
  
  
• "...and I get to tend the rabbits!"
  By A3Q1FVRV0CRYTH on 2006-05-19
  I want to say first and foremost that this is probably the most moving, touching and heartbreaking films I have ever seen. All the way around, where ever you look, this film confronts you with sadness. The story of George (Gary Sinise) and his retarded cousin Lennie (John Malkovich) is one for everyone to hear. During the depression these two traveling buddies look for work in California, and get work on a farm. Their not looking for any trouble, but trouble seems to find them in the name of Curley (Casey Siemaszko), the farm owners son, 'one of those little people that don't like big people', and because of that he has something against Lennie. Lennie is just a big teddy bear, one who likes to touch everything soft with his fingers, but he tends too touch them to hard. When trouble rears it's head in the form of an accident George is forced to make a choice regarding his relationship with Lennie. I don't want to say anymore for the less you know the better, but most of you have read the book or seen the original and so you probably know the ending. I just want to warn you that I've never been so depressed after watching a film as I was after watching this. That said, this is a masterpiece of a film and one of the best I've ever seen. Every performance is brilliant especially Malkovich who makes you love him and cry for him in almost every scene, as well as Sherilyn Fenn who plays Curley's lonely wife who seeks out George and eventually Lennie for attention. The sadness isn't without point I might add, for this film serves as a great example of how 'not' to treat others for it shows it heartwrenching detail the effect we have on others when we mistreat them, no matter what the reason. The phrase alone, 'of mice and men', is in reference, not to literal mice and men but to the simplicity in equality, how we, no matter what our race, social status or disability are all equal...theres no difference in mice and men for we are all the same. This is a classic story, and this is a brilliant adaptation that will warm, and then break, your heart.
  
  
• Brilliant adaptation of a classic story
  By AJKWF4W7QD4NS on 2007-05-11
  It's risky business whenever a classic piece of American literature is adapted to film (especially when it already was years before to boot), but somehow everyone involved here managed to pull it off. John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is brilliantly adapted here and directed by Gary Sinise. Sinise also stars as George, and John Malkovich is sublimely cast as George's retarded, hulkish cousin Lennie. The two drifters appear to finally find a home to call their own, and a dreamish future that is closer to ever than happening, only to have everything tragically fall apart. What makes this 1992 adaptation of Steinbeck's classic so great is Sinise's sensitive direction as well as his strong and understated performance, but it's John Malkovich who steals the show in one of his career best performances as the sympathetic Lennie who is trying to survive in a world he was never meant for. The DVD itself has some nice extras as well, including an insightful commentary from Sinise and screen tests for some of the actors. All in all, films adapted from classic literature rarely get better than this.
  
  
• Incredible
  By on 1999-10-16
  I found the movie had a convincing portrayal of friendship. Malkovich's acting as the retarded Lennie was outstanding, and Sinise's acting in the central role was very compelling.
  
  
• Convincing portrayal of friendship.
  By on 1999-10-03
  I've never read the original novel, so the story was completely new to me. It was refreshing to see a portrayal of a relationship between two unrelated men that doesn't lapse into the homophobic "buddies" conventions that are so depressingly common in films/books based on more modern material. Malkovich does not always succeed in hiding the fact that he is a highly intelligent man, but Sinise's acting in the central role is compelling. The film is well paced, avoiding the over-reverential and over-extended approach that is one of the pitfalls of adapting a classic to the screen.
  
  
• Far Far superior to original
  By on 2001-11-24
  The acting in the original 1939 version is over done. This Sinise version is far superior to the orginial in every way. Sinise not only acts in this beautiful film, he directs and produces it as well. His father edited it, and his wife is "the woman in the red dress". After viewing this 1992 version, I immediately watched the 1939 version so I could make a good honest comparison....the 1992 version is absolutely the best, nobody "over acts", it's much more realistic. This 1992 version is now my very favorite film of all time....but I must admit that the presence of my favorite actor of all time (Gary Sinise) could be one reason why!!
  
  
• Why doesn't Sinise direct anymore??
  By A3BXC8JS7FNH0Y on 2002-04-22
  This film is nearly ten years old now - and every time I watch it, one question springs to my mind: "Why doesn't Gary Sinise direct anymore?"

  This is quite simply one of the most fantastic movie adaptations of a classic novel ever made. True to the content and spirit of the book, Sinise is a big fan of Steinbeck, and it shows. This is lovingly crafted and packs all the emotional punch of the beautiful novel.

  The script, by Oscar-winning screen writer Horton Foote, is just esquisite, and as always, it will ultimately break your heart.

  John Malkovich as Lenny, the brain-damaged lumbering farm-hand with more strength than he knows how to control, puts in one of the finest performances of his career, and it's been a pretty impressive career.

  Gary Sinise - in a performance which brought him the attention he always deserved but Malkovich got - is faultless. He is a powerhouse performer, and a cinematic treasure. As a director, he has a clear vision of Depression era America which be evokes vividly and tells this powerful tale simply and elegantly.
  All in all, if you haven't seen this movie, you should. If you like good story-telling and the retro-feel of a movie like The Shawshank Redemption, then see this. It's pure and simple, and simply terrific.
  
  

• Malkovich Oscar Worthy
  By AI37YX1U4KB1L on 2002-10-03
  John Malkovich hits the proverbial nail on the head with his sickengly accurate portrayal of one of literature's all-time intriguing characters, Lenny Small. At first I was a little skeptical since Malkovich isn't exactly the prototype big, strong guy I envisioned in the role of Lenny. Gary Sinise was perfect for the cynical and smug role of George, but I was pleasantly surprised by Malkovich - where was the Oscar nod?
  Having read the book twice and thoroughly enjoyed it, the movie was hardly a disappointment as most movies based on classics turn out to be(Exhibit A:Mel Gibson's Hamlet). In fact, Sinise's directorial effort coupled with the genius of Malkovich makes this one movie that seemingly tops the book. And that's high praise. Kudos.
  
  
• A Great Film...
  By A34D06JL7LC6MU on 2006-11-25
  I've been reading "Of Mice and Men" for a class I'm in and even though I've liked what I've read of the book (I haven't even reached Chapter 3), I didn't have an overwhelming desire to see the movie. That was until I found out one of my favorite actors John Malkovich is in it. I went out and got it the day I heard that information. As I said, I've only read 1 1/2 chapters; So I don't know how faithful it is to the book, but the first few minutes were pretty faithful. Having said that, this review is for the movie and is based on the movie and nothing more. The movie is directed by Gary Sinise, with a script by two-time Oscar winning screenwriter Horton Foote; A screenwriter who had already penned a screenplay based on a great American novel "To Kill a Mockingbird." Since "Of Mice and Men" is considered one of the great American novels and it's author (John Steinbeck) one of the great American novelists, it's no doubt a daunting task to write the script. The film, however, is a complete cinematic triumph. The casting here is absolutely perfect. Sinise (an actor I pictured while reading the book) plays George and Malkovich plays Lennie. One of the things I love about Malkovich is his voice and I tend to hate it when he changes it to fit a character or an accent (i.e., Shadow of the Vampire). Here, I didn't mind it. In fact, I think it's one of Malkovich's best performances. George is a short, rough-around-the-edges kind of guy that is smart and hardworking, while Lennie is a hulking giant of a man with a good heart and the personality and wit of a baby. Both men are Depression-era workers, who are unable to hold a job because of Lennie's misgivings. They had a job in Weed, but were forced to flee when Lennie scared a woman by grabbing a hold of her dress (he liked the color). They arrive at the Tyler Ranch, with dreams of one day buying a house with a couple of acres and room for animals. Lennie will be able to tend to rabbits. Whenever George tells this story to Lennie, we see him happy. In fact, the only time George seems happy is when he's telling this story. At the farm, things go both ways for the fellas. They make some friends, like Candy (Ray Walston, in a great performance far away from Mr. Hand) and Slim (John Terry); But they also have to put up with the sadistic son-of-the-boss Curley (Casey Siemaszko). Worse yet, they have to put up with his unhappy and lonely wife (Sherilyn Fenn, 'Boxing Helena') who longs to talk to someone, but doesn't realize that by talking to the men she starts problems with Curley. A lot of people can put characters on paper that the audience really cares for, but it takes a really good actor to make you care for them onscreen. Malkovich and Sinise do just that. You like these characters. You get happy when something good happens to them and instantly depressed when it doesn't. Both give Oscar worthy work here and it amazes me that neither one scored an Oscar nomination (I'm not even sure if this film got nominated for ANY Oscar). Sinise is a great actor, with fantastic range...He captures the character of George so clearly and vividly, there's times where you forget he's acting at all. Malkovich is an absolute wonder to watch. What a complete actor this man is. He immerses himself into the role of Lennie; He has the voice and the movement and everything else down. This performance is just as good as Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump and Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man. The ending of the film is incredibly well written. I think the ending of the movie works better than the ending of the book (I skipped ahead a little bit). The last words are more poignant in the movie than in the book. Being as how I hadn't read that far when I saw the movie, the ending hit me even harder since I didn't know what was coming. It seems that people on Amazon like this film, which I'm quite happy to see. Because this is a great film on any level. Even if it bared no similarity to the book at all, this is a true masterpiece. If you have any appreciation for cinema, vivid characters, a great story, and amazing acting. See this movie. It's not necessarily a joyful, happy journey...But it's definitely one you want to take.
  
  GRADE: A+
  
  
• Great movie version of the classic novel
  By A2QRB6L1MCJ53G on 2000-05-04
  I had to read Of Mice and Men in high school and I liked the book so I figured I would watch the movie one day. Very few movies even come close to being as good as the book, but Of Mice and Men is an exception. Gary Sinise and John Malkovich play great roles as Lenny and George in the movie as do the ones that play Slim, Candy, and Curley.

  Gary Sinise couldn't have done a much better job directing the movie to be just like the book. Of Mice and Men is one of the best novel to movie translations ever. If you liked the book and even if you haven't ever read it, this is one movie worth getting anytime.
  
  

• EXCELLENT! EXCELLENT!EXCELLENT! ( u will truley love it)
  By A1S0Y8B3TTKFCI on 2000-02-02
  WOW! are the three words that i have to use to describe the movie and the book....i saw the movie before i saw the book and i have to say that i prefered the movie much more that the book.. this was a very impressie move that i would recomend to anyone...
  
  
• A Classic Novel Brought to Life on Screen
  By A2ZLROGIL2V7GV on 2002-09-06
  This isn't just a wonderful portrayal of John Steinbeck's Masterpiece; it's a wonderful film in general. "Of Mice and Men" is a marvelous picture that plays on all of our emotions.

  The movie is about two men who travel together all the time, hoping to own an acre of land and a nice home they can call their own. George is a smart man who always seems to have things figured out. Lennie is a giant with a mind of a young child. George looks after him, but it is not easy. Lennie always seems to get himself in some kind of trouble, and George is always the one who has to help him out. The two eventually land jobs on a ranch, hoping to make enough money to make their dreams come true. But that might be difficult when Lennie once again gets the two in serious trouble.

  The movie is directed by Gary Sinise, who does a spectacular job of bringing Steinbeck's wonderful novel to life. Just from seeing this movie alone, I think he has nothing but talent when it comes to sitting in the director's chair. He really should direct more. Also, he is a great actor, and plays the role of George flawlessly. He's everything I envisioned when reading the book.

  John Malkovich plays Lennie, and does an outstanding job at doing so. I sort of had my doubts at first, because I thought of Lennie as a giant, and Malkovich didn't seem like a giant to me. Well, when I was watching the movie, that all changed. He did the part justice. It's a crime that he didn't win anything for his role (or at least nothing I am aware of.)

  The movie stays very true to the book. Sure, as always, there are things removed or added. Mostly, there are things added because the novel is so short, they needed to add things to make the movie longer. Everything that was added worked and stayed true to the original story.

  The picture and sound quality was really up to par. It is 16:9 widescreen; aspect ratio 1.85:1. It looked really good; very crystal clear. Unfortunately, the DVD doesn't have much to offer in the special features department, with the exception of a trailer for the movie.

  "Of Mice and Men" is a spectacular movie that should've won a couple of Academy Awards. Everything about this film was outstanding. It is one I will watch over and over again. If you loved the book, chances are you will love the movie. And if you haven't read the book.....the more reason to see it.
  
  

• Sensitive human drama!
  By A16CZRQL23NOIW on 2005-07-22
  This was the third adaptation, whose Op. 1 was directed by Lewis Milestone in the early thirties The portrait focuses around the value of the friendship and shelter given to a weak mind. Two lonely men who bet for a better life and challenging it, elusive dreamers of a uncertainty future, but as you know the fate will come for them to fade.
  Fine performances, specially mention for John Malkovich as the defenseless human being. Sherilyn Penn made a very credible role. Her beauty runs parallel to her talent.
  
  
  
  
• Good adaptation
  By A2CW9IQAPFEYLM on 2006-05-04
  
  Remake of the classic Steinbeck short novel and 1939 screen gem, which starred Burgess Meredith and Lon Chaney, Jr. Here John Malkovich plays Lenny, and he is excellent as the dim-witted giant who only "wants to take care of the rabbits." Gary Sinise is George, Lenny's friend and "caretaker," and I like him better than Meredith in the same role back in '39. The movie is a faithful adaptation, with a few minor changes: the black man Crooks, for example, doesn't get involved in George and Lenny's scheme about getting a ranch and "living off the fat of the land" as in the book. Also whereas the shooting of Lenny after he's accidentally killed Curley's wife is long and drawn out in the '39 movie, here it's relatively quick - though a short flashback tag is added for no particular reason. It's a good production all around, certainly worth a watch.
  
  
• AMAZING VISUAL MASTERPIECE
  By on 2000-02-23
  If Anyone has seen GARY SINISE - they know he is amazing at whatever he does which includes acting and directing. Sinise takes a Steinbeck classic and turns it into a beautiful movie without harshening any of the blows that Steinbeck has been known to deliver. You WILL see some of the most gorgeous cinematography ever on film, absolutely phenomenol shots. At the same time Sinise and Malkovich give riviting performances as travelling partners who hope for a better life. This is a great movie for ANYONE and EVERYONE should watch it. Be sure to check out more of Gary Sinise's work - he rocks :).
  
  
• A depressing but extrordinary film
  By on 1999-04-17
  John Steinbeck's classic tale of men deperately trying to escape their monotonous and meaningless lives is captured extraordinarilly in this film. The film relates to the novel nearly line for line. Malkovich dramatizes the simple minded but caring character of Lennie exceptinally and Sinise performs equally as well as George, Lennie's protector and sometimes stern friend.
  
  
• Horrid
  By A1KE5DB5PA8B89 on 1999-12-09
  This was definately the worst story I have ever come across almost as bad as Johnny Tremain. Tolkien rocks read something worthwhile.
  
  
• A heartstring tugger in the traditional sense!
  By on 1999-03-08
  Steinbeck's ability to define the human condition is and remains unparalled in American letters. Add to this the artistic genuis that is so evident in Sinise both as actor and director and you have the makings of a great classic which is just what this movie is. Malkovich did a better than average job of portraying the retarded Lennie but playing retarded people seems to be a hurdle that most actors seem not to be able to make too well and Malkovich's portrayal is no exception. Have heard it said that George's and Lennie's relationship was that of brothers. I disagree and find George's reactions to Lennie's condition to be more paternal than sibling and I think this picture brings out that side of the relationship. Find myself wondering is Sinise didn't see it too.
  
  
• Of Mice and Men
  By A2OZL80BZ048L6 on 2005-03-09
  Gary Sinise looked for a challenge -and he found one: Make a movie based on John Steinbeck's best work: The novel Of Mice and Men.
  Lennie(John Malkovich), a giant laborer, with the strength of a bull, but mentally disabled and George(Gary Sinise), a normal worker who takes care for Lennie, travel together from one ranch to another while the Great Depression, because Lennie gets them in trouble all the time, so that they have to run away.
  But everything they want is little money to buy their own ranch, where George can do what he wants and Lennie can make his dream come true, and pet his own rabbits.
  
  The cast was well done.
  When you hear, that John Malkovich plays a men, who is very tall, strong as a bull, but everything than bright, you may think, that he cannot do this job. But this is more than wrong. When you see, how he really feels the character of Lennie you give all of your sympathies to this guy.
  And Gary Sinise himself did also a great job by playing George. He did both very well, the sensible side and the aggressive, the wild side of George.
  
  And as director Gary Sinise followed the novel very closely. This was the best thing, he could do because John Steinbeck wrote a wonderful book.
  I only want to encourage everyone outside to read the book and then watch the movie. It's a wonderful story, where you can get an impression about the Great Depression and it touches the heart
  
  
  

• To Kill a Mockingbird (Collector's Edition)
• The Crucible
• The Great Gatsby
• The Grapes of Wrath
• Romeo & Juliet