Hammerman Ikon

Hammerman Ikon Film Guide

Rebel Without a Cause
1955
*****
Director: Nicholas Ray
Cast: James Dean, Natalie Wood, Sal Mineo, Jim Backus, Ann Doran, Corey Allen, William Hopper, Rochelle Hudson

Nicholas Ray's powerful and highly influential drama is the quintessential portrayal of teenage angst. Its rebellious hero Jim Stark defies his parents, the school bullies, and the authorities alike, but he has a soft spot for the beautiful Judy. The film is still potent and it look great in Technicolor. James Dean redefines screen acting in his most iconic role. Incidentally, the three stars of the film - Dean, Wood and Mineo - all died premature tragic deaths.