Pros: Continuing my theme of watching depressing films on Valentine's Day, this film does not disappoint, with the great acting. Cal Trask (James Dean) is the troubled brother while Aron (Richard Davalos) is the golden child though by the end of the film, they switch places, though it is not always a natural switch.
Cons: Given the sensors at the time, the film has to play it safe with numerous subjects including the prostitute as Cal's mother, Kate (Jo Van Fleet) runs a bar/brothel. There is the innovative spirit of Adam (Raymond Massey), his father, wanting to transport fresh lettuce upstate by packing it in ice; however, he is also ethical to a fault and won't take a dime of profit from the war which drives the economy into a upward motion. Not to mention, it isn't entirely clear why Cal decides to improve himself.
Recommend: Yes
Grade: B+
Side Notes:
-Honestly, I can't blame Kate for leaving the stiff, religious and unflinching Adam, but to leave her boys, I cannot abide.
-Julie Harris receives top billing as Abra the devoted girlfriend/fiance of Aron though she somehow ends up falling in love with Cal, though he scares her as he's a rebel but even more than that. He's reckless.
-Despite the solid acting, I can't help but feel that the screenplay is clunky, with large gaps missing. I have to hope the book is better.
No comments:
Post a Comment