John Steinbeck's novel was adapted to the big screen in this 1942 film directed by Victor Fleming. Tortilla Flat is a small fishing village in which there is not much money and no work ethic. A good adaptation of Steinbeck's novel, the movie captures some of the earthy, amoral spirit of these Mexican-Americans. Frank Morgan received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his performance, considered the best in the film. stablish roots in California during the Depression remains a movie masterpiece. With a screenplay by Nunnally Johnson, it was directed by the legendary John Ford.