Review of Rebel Without a Cause (1955) by Ker Malkin G — 06 Jan 2014

This films biggest asset is its performances. Obviously James Dean was outstanding as the troubled Jim Stark but perhaps underrated and left in the shadows of Dean's giant performance was Sal Mineo as the psychologically damaged Plato.

The outcast of the school, Plato's character is the one I felt most empathy for as his parents don't care and don't provide the care he needs. He is ignored and left to be looked after by his family's maid.

For me, Plato is one of the most memorable characters I have ever seen in a movie and it is Mineo's performance, not Dean's that puts this movie over the top. By no means am I saying that Dean wasn't vital to this film or that he wasn't incredible in his role, I'm simply saying that Mineo's performance should get some hefty credit too.

This was an amazing movie and deservedly is considered one of the best films of all time.