James Dean
2001, Biography, 1h 36m
15 Reviews 1,000+ RatingsWhat to know
critics consensus
James Franco's uncanny portrayal of James Dean keeps this biopic engrossing, even as it emphasizes the Hollywood icon's myth over his more nuanced life story. Read critic reviews
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James Dean Photos
Movie Info
Cast & Crew
James Dean, Narrator
Winton Dean
Pier Angeli
Elia Kazan
Raymond Massey
Hedda Hopper
News & Interviews for James Dean
Critic Reviews for James Dean
All Critics (15) | Top Critics (10) | Fresh (14) | Rotten (1)
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For Freaks & Geeks' James Franco, James Dean is a major breakthrough. He not only looks like him, but his mannerisms and his whole persona are startlingly real. This movie rests on his thin, hunched shoulders, and he carries it off.
May 11, 2020 | Rating: A- | Full Review… -
The movie itself is rarely adventurous, but it could prompt viewers to watch the actual Dean performances again. Credit for that would go mainly to Franco, who excels at playing this odd, conflicted figure.
May 11, 2020 | Full Review… -
Franco's metamorphosis into Dean ranks as one of the great TV performances of the year. And it would have been enough to earn James Dean a rave, but it's only one of several performances that set this movie apart.
May 11, 2020 | Full Review… -
Sick of movie-star biopics? Then there's little to change your mind in this one... It's worth seeing, though, because James Franco uncannily channels the sulky, sexy, short-lived heartthrob.
May 11, 2020 | Full Review… -
Franco could have walked through the role and done a passable Dean, but instead gets under the skin of this insecure, rootless young man.
May 11, 2020 | Full Review… -
Re-creates Dean's life and times with what might be called stunning adequacy... Franco's performance is easily the best thing in the movie, conveying Dean's essence and angst without ever becoming a mere impersonation.
May 11, 2020 | Full Review…
Audience Reviews for James Dean
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May 03, 2013It's rare to see such a good television production, mostly due to the Franco's portrayal of James Dean. Although the film was detailed, it wasn't accurate.Sylvester K Super Reviewer
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Aug 08, 2009Really liked it. Maybe a little dramatic in parts but James Franco does a pitch-perfect job!Sunil J Super Reviewer
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Apr 09, 2009Here's an interesting movie that centralizes on the life and death of James Dean. James Franco portrays the Hollywood star in this intriguing story plot that marks his success. Worth seeing!Leo L Super Reviewer
James Dean Quotes
Elia Kazan: | What the hell were you thinking in there? Raymond Massey is a highly respected actor and you've deeply offended. |
James Dean: | You said I offended him. |
Elia Kazan: | Of course you've deeply offended him. |
James Dean: | Good. |
Elia Kazan: | Why good? |
James Dean: | 'Cause I need him to hate me. |
Elia Kazan: | What the hell were you thinking in there? Raymond Massey is a highly respected actor and you've deeply offended. |
James Dean: | Good. |
Elia Kazan: | Why good? |
James Dean: | 'Cause I need him to hate me. |
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