This has not aged very well. I imagine its impact was greater in the context of the beat generation and the emerging counter-culture, and perhaps more notably in the shadow of James Dean's death. But today it comes off as dated and maudlin, and I'm none too impressed with Dean's performance. Nicholas Ray's talent behind the camera is apparent through some nifty cinematography, but it's not enough to save this picture.

NIcholas Ray's colorful and beautifully shot picture remains as one of the most daring, bittersweet, powerful and angry coming-of-age films. This is a prelude to what was about to happen in the explosive 60s, when the outsiders' voice would be clearly heard.

Now, a lot of the characters in this movie seem flat and stale, but I can really appreciate that at the time, it was unusual to even focus this much on teenagers who were actually BEING TEENAGERS, and not little adults. There's not much of a plot, but it's interesting to see anyway.

300

classic

Need I say it but this film is incredibly dated. It's interesting in the sense that going to the museum is interesting; the way family relationships are depicted is mindbendingly surreal. James Dean sure did have a purdy face, but I'm not convinced of his immortal badassery. For one thing, I fail to see how he's relatable to today's youth, and for another everything in RWAC seems to take place in a consequence-free vacuum. Hey that pseudo-gay guy just got fucking shot! Who gives a shit! Eyyyyy!

Dated in setting only, this film is a remarkable depiction of the contradictory mix of self-assuredness and self-loathing that practically defines teen angst. Yes, it's melodramatic, but take a good look at any tantrum-throwing teen in your life, then try to deny a resemblance to Wood's histrionics, or Dean's wild mood swings. For them, these emotions are life or death, and the fact that the film treats their "teen experience" with respect is why it still resonates all these years later.

I don't mind watching a film about disoriented, mindless rebels, but damnit, I want my idiots to have a heart. I hated spending time with them as the film drew to its close, which is a shame since everything leading up to Buzz' death was excellent. Watch Mean Creek aswell, at least there the characters don't succumb to apathy in the aftermath of a tragic event. lol at shebang's review

If you're idea of 1955 has anything to do with Marty McFly this film will shock you into reality. A truly beautifully crafted performance from Dean albeit with a story and script that has some flaws. Entirely of it's time, this remains a time capsule of 1950's teenage angst. Well worth watching and still able to capture the post war sense of meaningless that hit the baby-boomers. Deserving of the label 'classic'

I know this is supposed to be a classic, but, man, I was just bored to tears!

A classic? Yes. Iconic? Yes. But still brilliant...? Well no! It's fascinating in a "look how things used to be" sort of way, and there is plenty to admire, particuarly as this film catches the essence of its era so well. But "Rebel Without a Cause" hasn't aged well, and truly great films do.