James Dean Details

The story of a fascinating life, well told

James Franco looks eerily similar to James Dean - though his interpretation of the troubled young actor would've carried him through regardless.

To those familiar with the biographical detail in the film, it is watchable for the wonderful performances - as well as the geeky fun of seeing famous actors played by others. Edward Herrmann's Raymond Massey and Sam Gould's Martin Landau are particularly enjoyable.

For those who don't know much about James Dean, it gives a good all-round picture of his shyness, his ambition, and what drove the troubled young man. I was sorry that there were no scenes depicting his role in The Immoralist, and would have loved to have seen his meeting with Marlon Brando, but beyond these, it has an excellent array of scenes in terms of geography and emotion.

A highly enjoyable film, and a great introduction to the three films in which Dean stars.