My Man and I (1952)

In the heart of central California, we meet Chu Chu Ramirez, an American laborer of Mexican descent. With a heart full of optimism and a letter from the U.S. President congratulating him on his U.S. citizenship, Chu Chu harbors a fervent belief in the attainability of the American dream. Unlike his comrades who squander their earnings on gambling, he invests in self-improvement, eager to rise above the mundane. His path crosses with three individuals that shape his outlook on this American dream. The first two are Mr. and Mrs. Ansel Ames, a pair of corrupt farmers under whose employ Chu Chu finds himself. Mrs. Ames, a bitter woman dissatisfied with her life and marriage, masks a hidden desire for Chu Chu, much to her husband's discernment. This volatile situation spirals out of control when Chu Chu finds himself blamed for accidentally injuring Mr. Ames with his own shotgun following a paycheck dispute. The third individual is Nancy Webson, a self-dubbed wino who drowns her regret in alcohol, mourning the life she never truly got a chance to live. Despite her flaws and the heavy baggage she carries, Chu Chu finds himself drawn to her, eventually falling in love. Nancy reciprocates his affection, yet she fears burdening him with her troubled past. With a year's sentence looming over him due to the Ames incident and his blossoming relationship with Nancy, Chu Chu's unwavering belief in the American dream is put to the ultimate test. His tale is a compelling exploration of faith, love, and the pursuit of a dream in the face of adversity.

My Man and I is a drama movie featuring Shelley Winters and directed by William A. Wellman.

My Man and I is currently streaming on TCM.