Review of Giant (1956) by Alex S — 26 Jul 2007

Better than I expected. Although I know I should have expected a good movie...hell, it's James Dean...I expected it to be some average non-offensive 50's western. I was wrong. This movie provokes change, and perhaps one could say was a few years before it's time.

I didn't even know Dennis Hopper was in this movie, but the role that he plays was amazing. If I had known he was in it, I would have expected better. Everybody gives great performances. It is very long, but to me it didn't really seem like it.

But I'm pretty sure that's just me, since Barry Lyndon didn't feel very long to me either. I probably couldn't watch this again, but that doesn't mean it's not worth your time the first time.

I was a bit disappointed that James Dean didn't have a bigger part. That seems like a major flaw, and is what could keep this film from becoming a classic. Just being in it, and being his last movie gives it enough attention, but the fact is, even though he plays a major role, he doesn't get much screen time.

Still though, recommended.