John Steinbeck’s The Forgotten Village DVD Documentary

A treasure of American documentary cinema, The Forgotten Village triumphs as a political statement, an illumination of impoverished Mexican family life, and a confluence of great artists. American literary giant John Steinbeck takes his passion for the lives of simple people and weaves together a breathtaking narrative for this film, similar to his novel of the same title. Of Mice and Men film actor Burgess Meredith reads the narration, set to the stirring music by famous German composer Hans Eisler. The film itself deals with the standards of living in an unnamed Mexican community. Following the life of Juan Diego, the shockingly poor conditions in this village are brought to light. These tremendous artists, combined with harrowing film footage of deplorable living conditions, make The Forgotten Village a masterpiece.