East of Eden

4.2

(361)

Drama

1955

115 min

In the Salinas Valley in and around World War I, Cal Trask feels he must compete against overwhelming odds with his brother for the love of their father. Cal is frustrated at every turn, from his reaction to the war, how to get ahead in business and in life, and how to relate to his estranged mother.

Starring:

Drama

7.9/10

90%

Also Available On:

Community ReviewsSee all

"This film is tense from start to finish, but in a way that makes you appreciate James Dean and his moody manner of acting. This plot surrounds two boys that try to live up to the perfect ideals of their religious father. At times, the father holds on so tight to his righteousness that it makes the sons compete against each other in search of his praise or simply an ounce of love. All of the actors performances seem raw and realistic. The background of this drama is The Great War, and how the small farms and communities were affected by the patriotism, war profits, and unfortunately, the racial discrimination. The film culminates in a powerful scene where the viewer finally sees which of the two sons wins the tug-of-war of the father's heart. It is an amazing film, but I do not think I could bring myself to watch it again."

Errika Mason

"It’s a toss up between Giant and East of Eden as my favorite movie featuring James Dean. His heartbreaking performance in East of Eden stirs up so much awe at his vulnerability in the role. The touch of the film is purely Kazan. "