A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
In Brooklyn circa 1900, the Nolans manage to enjoy life on pennies despite great poverty and Papa's alcoholism. We come to know these people well through big and little troubles: Aunt Sissy's scandalous succession of "husbands"; the removal of the one tree visible from their tenement; and young Francie's desire to transfer to a better school...if irresponsible Papa can get his act together.
Critics Sentiment
Francie and Neeley graduate from their respective schools
Johnny dies of pneumonia after collapsing while job hunting
The film's most dramatic shift occurs from Johnny's devastating death (5.8) to the emotionally cathartic birth and mother-daughter reconciliation sequence (8.3)
Critics praised this as a masterful family drama that builds emotional investment through authentic character relationships, particularly between Francie and her father Johnny. The film reaches its emotional nadir with Johnny's tragic death, which reviewers noted had audiences weeping, but recovers powerfully through the birth sequence and graduation ending. Multiple critics called it a neglected masterpiece with flawless performances and Kazan's outstanding directorial debut.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 89
Dorothy McGuire
Katie Nolan
Joan Blondell
Aunt Sissy
James Dunn
Johnny Nolan
Lloyd Nolan
Officer McShane
James Gleason
McGarrity
Ted Donaldson
Neeley Nolan
Peggy Ann Garner
Francie Nolan
Ruth Nelson
Miss McDonough
John Alexander
Steve Edwards
B.S. Pully
Christmas Tree Vendor
Ferike Boros
Grandmother (uncredited)
Virginia Brissac
Miss Tilford (uncredited)
Lillian Bronson
Librarian (uncredited)
Adeline De Walt Reynolds
Mrs. Waters (uncredited)
Charles Halton
Mr. Barker (uncredited)
Harry Harvey Jr.
Herschel Knutson (uncredited)
J. Farrell MacDonald
Mr. Carney The Junkman (uncredited)
Mae Marsh
Tynmore Sister (uncredited)
Nicholas Ray
Bakery Clerk (uncredited)
Erskine Sanford
Undertaker (uncredited)
Crew
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