Rebel Without a Cause

Newly arrived in Los Angeles Jim Stark (James Dean) gets arrested for being drunk in a public space. In arrest, he meets Plato (portrayed by bisexual Sal Mineo) and Judy (Natalie Wood), both also teenage and rebellious. All of them lost any trust in their parents, searching for themselves in a world deprived of childish naivety and ideals. Jim falls in love with Judy and becomes friends with Plato. It’s Plato who accompanies him in his first days at the new school. But Plato doesn’t want to be just a friend to Jim, he has a crush on him.
It’s 1955 and the restrictive Hays Code that prohibits any films that mention homosexuality is still in power in the USA, Plato’s adoration is therefore depicted only in small suggestions, a bit too long looks, dreamy eyes, and his nickname (the “Feast” of real-life Plato includes a long compliment of same-sex male love). “Rebel” is a cult movie that made Dean immortal.

And what’s the connection with Brando? James Dean and Marlon Brando were not only lovers, but according to some sources they had a turbulent, intensive sadomasochistic romance, in which Brando was taking advantage of James’ loyalty and making him wait for hours at his bedroom door or watch Marlon having sex with others.

🏆 Academy Awards 1956 – Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Oscar Nominee – Sal Mineo
🏆 Academy Awards 1956 – Best Actress in a Supporting Role, Oscar Nominee – Natalie Wood
🏆 Academy Awards 1956 – Best Writing, Motion Picture Story, Oscar Nominee – Nicholas Ray