Director: Nicholas Ray
Stars: James Dean, Natalie Wood and Sal Mineo
Genre: Drama | Romance
MPAA Rating:
(some violence and thematic elements)
Running Time: 111 Mins
Tagline: "Teenage terror torn from today's headlines "
Ever hear the phrase “they don’t make them like they used to” well it’s quite evident in this timeless classic, starring the late talented actor James Dean, who passed away in 1955 from a tragic car accident. Rebel without a Cause is one of three films released upon the time of his death, and the only three films he ever got to work in. Now, I had never seen a James Dean movie, not until I saw this one last week; and to be honest it’s a shame I had not seen this earlier, it easily falls in my top 25 films of all time. Rebel without a Cause may be considered by some as an antiquated and dated film- I personally beg to differ. This movie is as ever relevant now as it was in 1955 (when released). The films topic of rebellious youth adapting to transitions from childhood to young adulthood can still be observed in many adolescents today; perhaps even to a higher degree today. That is why I wouldn’t regard this film as out-of-date. The wardrobe and manners of expressions of the 50’s may no longer be apparent today, but youth alienation, and eagerness for acceptance from peers is still very relevant and significant in today’s modern society.
As for the plot of Rebel without a Cause, the film follows the story of three troubled and misunderstood teenagers. All of which just want one simple thing: “to be accepted”. The parents of these youths can’t relate with them, some try to empathize with their dilemmas, but they fail to provide any real help. The first youth we are introduced to is Jim Stark (James Dean) a new student in town who doesn’t seem to be able to fit in with anyone in school. Jim’s attempts at fitting in end up in rebellious acts-such as-drag racing, street fighting, and other mischievous acts. The other adolescents we are introduced to are Judy (Natalie Wood) who only wants love from her mother and father, and Plato (Sal Mineo) who just want to be acknowledged and understood by his peers.
Stars: James Dean, Natalie Wood and Sal Mineo
Genre: Drama | Romance
MPAA Rating:
(some violence and thematic elements)Running Time: 111 Mins
Tagline: "Teenage terror torn from today's headlines "
Ever hear the phrase “they don’t make them like they used to” well it’s quite evident in this timeless classic, starring the late talented actor James Dean, who passed away in 1955 from a tragic car accident. Rebel without a Cause is one of three films released upon the time of his death, and the only three films he ever got to work in. Now, I had never seen a James Dean movie, not until I saw this one last week; and to be honest it’s a shame I had not seen this earlier, it easily falls in my top 25 films of all time. Rebel without a Cause may be considered by some as an antiquated and dated film- I personally beg to differ. This movie is as ever relevant now as it was in 1955 (when released). The films topic of rebellious youth adapting to transitions from childhood to young adulthood can still be observed in many adolescents today; perhaps even to a higher degree today. That is why I wouldn’t regard this film as out-of-date. The wardrobe and manners of expressions of the 50’s may no longer be apparent today, but youth alienation, and eagerness for acceptance from peers is still very relevant and significant in today’s modern society. 
As for the plot of Rebel without a Cause, the film follows the story of three troubled and misunderstood teenagers. All of which just want one simple thing: “to be accepted”. The parents of these youths can’t relate with them, some try to empathize with their dilemmas, but they fail to provide any real help. The first youth we are introduced to is Jim Stark (James Dean) a new student in town who doesn’t seem to be able to fit in with anyone in school. Jim’s attempts at fitting in end up in rebellious acts-such as-drag racing, street fighting, and other mischievous acts. The other adolescents we are introduced to are Judy (Natalie Wood) who only wants love from her mother and father, and Plato (Sal Mineo) who just want to be acknowledged and understood by his peers. 
In all, the characters presented want the same things from society: approval and acceptance. That is why I restate that this film is not outdated, it offers viewers a view of how the problems children face today was also evident in the past. Nothing ever really changes, it is all a cycle, and we are connected. So the next time you hear your parents say “I know what you are going through” listen, very likely there is a reason for why they tell you that. As mentioned before, the film’s tone may be old-fashioned, but the message is as important now as it was then. Give the film chance; it is definitely a classic that shouldn’t be missed. Personally I would recommend owning this one and having it on your shelf.
If you are going to purchase this movie, I recommend you buy Rebel Without a Cause (2-Disc Special Edition) this version brings a remastered print of the movie, and it includes special features never before seen. Also, if interested in more of James Dean’s movies I recommend the TCM Greatest Classic Films Collection DVD. This DVD includes another Dean film titled “East of Eden” and two other movies starring Marlon Brando and Paul Newman.
good review great movie!
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