Dreamworks is in talks to remake The Grapes of Wrath, previously adapted in 1940 from the John Steinbeck novel.

Having beat out Robert Redford and a number of other producers, it is unclear if Steven Spielberg only wishes to be attached as a producer or if he wants to direct as well.

Originally directed by John Ford and starring Henry Fonda, Wrath follows The Joads- a poor Oklahoma family forced off their land who dreamily follow the hopes of the American dream to the lush, green hills of California. Instead of prosperity, however, the Joads are beaten down by poverty and hunger.

Sounds cheery, right?