teenLOOK feature a film icon remembering James Dean 60 PHOTO teenlook.ca CREDIT | issue / HULTON <strong>#3</strong> ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES
James Byron Dean When it comes to iconic film stars and celebrities, usually three names will come to mind. Marylin Monroe, Elvis Presley, and James Dean. The film industry of the 50s was mostly filled with Biblical epics and Historical Masterpieces. Life on screen was portrayed as idyllic and perfect. But there was an restless group of the viewing audience that wanted to see life the way it really was for them. America's restless youth. These teenagers instantly identified with James' onscreen performance of Cal Trask in East of Eden, a role that mirrored James' own life. His role of a despondent son, without a mother and unable to please his father, came to life easily and honestly on screen. So real in fact that this relatively unknown actor sat down to watch the screening of the film, completely unrecognized, but by the end, he walked out a star. It happened that fast. Up to this point, James had always been pursuing his acting career. Appearing in some commercials, and on film and stage, but it wasn't until 1951 when he moved to New York to pursue acting seriously. He wanted nothing else than to become a star. Life was hard, and he was often broke and unable to pay his rent; sometimes going days between meals. Never giving up on his dreams, he was always searching for the next gig to propel him to stardom. He was a difficult actor to work with for both fellow actors and directors alike. He would continuously do his own thing during rehearsals. Making life difficult for everyone on set, but when it came time to perform, then his true grit and honesty would shine, and that's what caught peoples attention. words by Mr. G Off the set, he was reticent and moody. If you came up to him as a fan or showing him your appreciation for his work and gushing over him, he wasn't interested. He wanted the honest opinion of people who saw him and his work for what it was. Genuine. At first glance, many people didn't think much of the young actor. He never carried himself as a star or acted that way. Most often, the complete opposite. Remaining quiet and aloof at events, preferring to be on his own. The most significant danger in James' life was his lack of fear. He loved speed and was becoming an exceptional race car driver in between filming. He loved motorcycles and fast cars. His acting career was brief, with only just a little over a year's worth of film work, making three films in total. East of Eden, Rebel without a cause, and Giant. Even in that short period, James Dean has become one of the most recognizable household names. His portrayal and personification of the American teenager through his life and films has made him unforgettable. Sadly, his career and life were cut short while on route to a race. September 30, 1955, James' Porsche 550 Spyder was involved in an accident, and he was killed at the age of 24. The two latter films were released after his death, and he was nominated for two academy awards. A hollywood legend and icon. His life cut short, but he lives on in his persona and influence. teenLOOK James Dean born February 8, 1931 Marion, Indiana, USA Notable films • East of Eden • Rebel without a cause • Giant Personification of America's teen population Film icon Race driver Model Photographer “There is no simple explanation for why he has come to mean so much to so many people today. Perhaps it is because, in his acting, he had the intuitive talent for expressing the hopes and fears that are a part of all young people… In some movie magic way, he managed to dramatize brilliantly the questions every young person in every generation must resolve.” - Joe Hyams teenlook.ca | issue <strong>#3</strong> 61