James Dean was an American actor who had gained the status of a cultural icon of teenage disillusionment and social estrangement for his portrayal of troubled teenager Jim Stark in one of his best films, ‘Rebel Without a Cause’ (1955). His portrayal of loner Cal Trask in ‘East of Eden’ (1955) and surly ranch hand Jett Rink in ‘Giant’ (1956) are also considered among his best roles and contributed considerably to his stardom.
He started his career on television, appearing as John the Apostle in Easter television special ‘Hill Number One’ (1951). During his struggling years, he performed on a number TV shows including ‘Kraft Television Theatre’ (1952-53), ‘Robert Montgomery Presents’ (1953), ‘Danger’ (1953-54), ‘General Electric Theater’ (1954) and ‘The United States Steel Hour’ (1955).
He achieved a breakthrough in 1953 when he was cast by director Elia Kazan in the emotionally complex role of 'Cal Trask' in the film adaptation of John Steinbeck's 1952 novel ‘East of Eden’. He impressed the crew with his improvisation on the set and later earned an ‘Academy Award’ nomination posthumously in 1956. The role foreshadowed his later roles as a troubled youth in his last two films before his untimely death.
East of Eden is a drama film, which tells the story of two brothers who compete for the approval of their strict father, as well as for the affection of the woman whom they both are attracted to.
This 1955 American drama revolves around a troubled but sensitive teenager named Jim, who rejected his elder’s values, and also wanted to have a purpose in life. The film is known as a groundbreaking attempt to portray the moral decay of the American youth of the time, as well as to explore the conflicts between generations.
Giant is a Western drama film, which tells the story of a Texas ranching family, as they are fighting to survive the changing times.
This documentary film narrates the life of late American actor James Dean. It looks at his life through the use of still photos as well as narration. The documentary also involves several interviews taken with many of the people involved in his life.
Samuel Fulton, an aging millionaire without an heir, decides to leave his fortune to the family of the late Millicent Blaisdell, who had once dumped him for his lack of money, thereby inspiring him to pursue wealth. However, he also wants to test the family beforehand, in order to ensure that the money would not be misused.
Melvin Jones, who is allergic to cosmetics, applies for the Navy to travel in the ocean as prescribed by a doctor and befriends Al Crowthers, who has a bad knee. After they are accepted, his friends make a bet prompting Melvin to kiss the star Corinne Calvet, enraging his new girlfriend Hilda and Al, who is courting Corinne.
James Dean Awards
| Winner | World Film Favorite - Male | 1957 |
