East of Eden (1955) - 1/5

This film is a pointless look at a troubled young man with a fatalistic woe-is-me attitude. As far as the narrative is concerned there’s no real reason for his disaffected ennui but he mopes about for the duration, before coming to a conclusion without a resolution. Nothing about this movie stands out as worth watching on its own, and the story does not justify its own existence.

Closest comparison: It’s like The 400 Blows by way of Rebel Without a Cause.

Setting: Family Drama
Plot: Self-pity
Tone: Dour Drama

Rebel Without a Cause - 5/5

This is the type of movie that looks and feels like any number of its peers but surpasses them all. It’s a coming of age tale that replaces angst with practical existentialism and suspenseful dread. The characters are immensely practical and the script is a tour-de-force in showing dynamic, complex character motivations without making them shrouded and esoteric. It’s power is in its simplicity, which allows the depth to shine through.

Closest comparison: It’s like American Graffiti by way of In A Lonely Place.

Setting: High School Drama
Plot: Coming of Age
Tone: Thriller