Review of East of Eden (1955) by Joe L — 05 Nov 2009
Dean is compelling every moment on he's screen. elia kazan seems to get from him the same moviestar lightning that struck in brando's 'streetcar' debut. from what'd i'd seen before, and judging by the poster art, I expected this to be another 'rebel' style story about 50's teen angst.
I was surprised to discover that the film is a period piece, taking place in 1917, and is a loose retelling of the biblical cain and abel. right off the bat we're expecting a story about murderous jealousy, but it's actually about a man's singleminded drive to win the approval of his father.
the fulcrum of the entire picture is one beautiful scene in which dean crushes before the camera in anguished heartbreak. this is now my favorite of his performances.
This review of East of Eden (1955) was written by Joe L on 05 Nov 2009.
East of Eden has generally received very positive reviews.
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