Review of East of Eden (1955) by Alain P — 11 Aug 2007

This film utilizes color with great artistic direction. It really accentuates the feel of a Steinbeck novel, set (in this one) in burgeoning California towns in the early half of the 20th century. James Dean's debut and raw talent is hard to not notice. His approach to the dramatic realism, is handled with a kind of effervescent pathos. There are some noticeable affectations improvised by use of the 'method' but it works. It's hard to imagine if the character of Cal was handled in a refined, subdued approach.

I think there are truncated points to the film that will intrigue you about the actual Steinbeck novel--apparently the story in the film starts off in the latter half of the book, focusing on just the rivalry between the two sons. However the allegory--via a biblical adaptation, by Steinbeck makes for a very moving melodrama in itself, that Kazan and Osborn are able to implement effectively. The climax in the film has Steinbeck's humanistic stamp on it, containing a whirlwind of emotions.