The movie "Rebel Without a Cause" is a microcosm of youth. It deals with the emotional burdens carried by young people who have a society around them that just don't understand them at all. Anyone who's been a teenager can identified with the feelings of disconnection and frustration portrayed by the characters. "Rebel" ,attempts for the first time to portray teens as they really are, deeply disturbed and searching desperately for a connection. These are the universal malaise of teenagers and young adults. The fact is that no one takes you seriously, but expects a lot of from you nonetheless. This movie is timeless. The first real "teen angst" movie that was ever made. The success of "Rebel", has in my opinion never been matched in any teen movie since. Possibly only closely rivaled by films such as "Fast Times at Ridgemont High". This movie was a very provocative one for it's times. The 1950's where a very conventional time, and this movie's contents where very controversial. The subject matter in this movie is best termed as dark. It deals with subjects such as depression, neglect, violent and suicidal tendencies etc, which where possibly taboo subjects at the time, especially in regards to teenagers. The acting was superb. James Dean especially, followed by excellent performances by Natalie Wood, and Sal Menio, and good performances by he rest of the supporting cast too. It's amazing how James Dean is still a youth icon 50 years after his death. His looks and personality have a timeless quality, and his early death only enhanced the allure, and mystery surrounding him. "Rebel Without a Cause" is a great dramatic movie, with excellent writing and cinematography, rivaled only by the sensitivity of the performances. Its worth a watch and I give it a thumbs up!
Review of Rebel Without a Cause
