Review of Rebel Without a Cause (1955) by Garrett R — 19 Sep 2009
"Rebel without a cause" is still a timeless masterpiece. Kids of today can still relate to it's basic premise, of youth misunderstood.. .of wanting to belong.. The clothes, hair, and times may have changed, but the story of 3 teens, bonding as the world around them seems to cave-in, is just as potent today as it was in 1955.
James Dean delivers a knock-out performance as, Jim Stark, in one of Hollywood's most influential classics. Having trouble at home and in school, Jim meets Judy, played by the gorgeous, Natalie Wood, and, the terrific, Sal Mineo, as "Plato".
Sal Mineo was nominated for an Academy Award for best supporting actor in this film. All 3 youths have troubled backgrounds and family issues. Jim, Judy, and Plato form a kind of "family",(and it's obvious Plato has a crush on Jimmy, making Plato possibly the first gay teen in cinema history) These 3 not only make you care for them, but you can almost "feel" their agony.
"Rebel" is not just the tale of teens trying to fit-in. It is also about friendship.. it's about loyalty.. integrity, and the basic need to feel loved. That is what makes this movie so potent.
That is why generation after generation have discovered, and embraced "Rebel". Times have changed, but human emotions haven't: We all long for human interaction, and companionship. And for 24 hours, at least, this family of 3 found it.
We should all be so lucky.
This review of Rebel Without a Cause (1955) was written by Garrett R on 19 Sep 2009.
Rebel Without a Cause has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
