All 25 James Dean Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Get ready to dive into the world of classic cinema with our latest article, James Dean Movies. This roundup takes you on a journey through time, showcasing the timeless performances of the legendary actor James Dean in some of his most iconic films. From Rebel Without a Cause to East of Eden, we explore the depth and versatility of Dean’s talent, providing a compelling look at his enduring impact on the art of filmmaking.
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1. Trouble Along the Way (1953)
“Trouble Along the Way” is a 1953 comedy film featuring iconic stars John Wayne and Donna Reed. Set against the backdrop of a small Catholic college facing financial ruin, the college hires a seasoned ex-football coach to turn its struggling football team into winners. Meanwhile, the coach and his team face a series of challenges and unexpected obstacles both on and off the field.
2. Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
“Rebel Without a Cause” is a classic coming-of-age drama featuring three troubled teenagers, played by the legendary James Dean, Natalie Wood, and Sal Mineo. Together, they navigate through the world of juvenile delinquency in a new town, navigating friendships, rivalries, and the struggle to define their identities. The film, directed by Nicholas Ray and written by Irving Shulman, Stewart Stern, and Ray himself, won three Academy Awards and garnered seven nominations.
3. Giant (1956)
Giant (1956) is a sweeping, epic drama that follows the life of a Texas cattle rancher, Jordan “Bick” Benedict Jr, and his family and associates. Starring a stellar cast including Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean, the movie is set over a period of 25 years, starting in the 1920s and ending after World War II. The story revolves around the rivalry between Bick and an upstart oil rancher, Jett Rink, as well as Bick’s attempts to balance his traditional values with the changing social landscape.
4. America at the Movies (1976)
America at the Movies is a riveting 1976 documentary film, directed by George Stevens Jr. that takes the audience on a captivating journey through the storytelling landscape of the United States of America. This unique movie is an exceptional celebration of 83 films, meticulously compiled and presented in five thought-provoking segments: The Land, The Cities, The Families, The Wars, and The Spirit.
5. Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage (1983)
“Behind the Scenes of Hollywood Legends” is a must-watch for enthusiasts of vintage footage and comedic bloopers. Released in 1985, this distinct collection features a compilation of exclusive clips that reveal the untold stories behind some of the most iconic films in history. Sporting a tagline that reads ‘The Unexpected Humor, Parody Comedy, Compilation. . Rare Outtake!’, it is evident that this film concentrates primarily on the comical, unseen moments that frequently elude public scrutiny.
6. Heavy Petting (1989)
“Heavy Petting” (1989) is an intriguing, enlightening documentary that explores the first sexual experiences of various celebrities. Directed by Obie Benz and Joshua Waletzky, and penned by writer Pierce Rafferty, this film delves into the 1950s sexual awakening of its stars, shedding light on their early encounters with masturbation.
7. Death in Hollywood (1990)
Venture into the sinister realm of Hollywood with the chilling documentary, “Death in Hollywood” (1990), which unveils the grim tales of the untimely demises of some of the most cherished film industry luminaries. As you traverse through the turbulent landscape of Tinseltown, you’ll witness how ambitions can swiftly transform into bitter nightmares and how the disastrous ramifications of fame, addiction, and disillusionment lurk in every hidden corner. Directed by Nick Bougas, this unapologetic exploration into the lives of the stars who have fallen from grace will leave you both astonished and heartbroken by the tragedy buried beneath the surface of Hollywood’s allure.
8. Hollywood Heaven: Tragic Lives, Tragic Deaths (1990)
Hollywood Heaven: Tragic Lives, Tragic Deaths is a poignant and powerful documentary that takes an unflinching look at the tragic lives and untimely deaths of some of the biggest names in Hollywood. This riveting film is a compilation of photos, footage, and trailers, providing an unprecedented insight into the lives of these stars and the circumstances that led to their untimely or tragic ends. From the comedic genius of Bud Abbott to the enigmatic charm of The Beatles, viewers will be captivated by the raw emotion and heartache that has plagued the lives of these iconic figures.
9. Death Scenes 2 (1992)
“Death Scenes 2, “ released in 1992, is a chilling documentary that delves into the darkest corners of violent death. Directed by Nick Bougas, the film is a follow-up to the original “Death Scenes” and features the same war-atrocity footage from the 1990s.
10. Gesichter Des Todes VII (1992)
“Gesichter Des Todes VII” (1992) is a gripping and thought-provoking documentary that delves into the dark realms of humanity’s twisted history. Under the direction of Doro Vlado Hreljanovic and Nick Bougas, and with the screenplay by Gabriele Crisanti, this film offers an unflinching look into the horrors that have shaped our world.
11. The Silver Screen: Color Me Lavender (1997)
“The Silver Screen: Color Me Lavender” (1997) is a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the world of film history and the seemingly innocent images that hold deeper, hidden meanings. This intriguing exploration takes us behind the veil of the past, revealing how the golden age of Hollywood was not as innocent as it appeared. Through images and phrases pulled from a bygone era, this film lifts the veils and uncovers decades-old secrets of subliminal messages that carried homosexual overtones.
12. Hamlet (2000)
Embark on a gripping journey through modern-day New York City with Hamlet, a spellbinding adaptation of Shakespeare’s epic tale of murder, vengeance, and ghostly apparitions. This powerful retelling of the classic play follows the enigmatic Prince Hamlet as he grapples with his father’s mysterious death and navigates the treacherous world of political intrigue and familial betrayal.
13. 101 Most Shocking Moments in Entertainment (2003)
Step into a world of jaw-dropping revelations and eye-opening surprises as E! Entertainment Television presents the 101 Most Shocking Moments in Entertainment. From disturbing discoveries and astonishing arrests to tragic endings that left the American Public stunned, this thrilling TV special takes you on a journey through some of the most unforgettable moments in the entertainment industry’s history.
14. Bettie Page: The Girl in the Leopard Print Bikini (2004)
“Bettie Page: The Girl in the Leopard Print Bikini” delves into the life of iconic model and actress, Bettie Page. This documentary features vintage films and photographs that thrust her into the limelight, highlighting the era she lived in and the profound impact her career left behind. With her time as a photographer’s model and actress now in the past, this film captures her enduring legacy, while also revealing the captivating story that lies beneath the leopard print bikini.
15. Die Geschichte des erotischen Films (2004)
“Die Geschichte des erotischen Films” (The History of Erotic Film) is a German documentary released in 2004, directed by Claire Wilisch and written by Sascha Dünnebacke, Lena Spak, and Wilisch herself. The film offers a comprehensive overview of the history of erotic cinema, spanning a century and exploring various aspects of the genre, such as female toplessness and frontal nudity.
16. James Dean: Forever Young (2005)
Experience the captivating story of James Dean in “James Dean: Forever Young” (2005), an eminent documentary that showcases the unforgettable brief yet impactful career of the iconic actor. This film is narrated by the versatile Martin Sheen, who guides us through the remarkable journey of James Dean’s life.
17. Filmmakers vs. Tycoons (2005)
“Filmmakers vs. Tycoons” (2005) delves into the world of cinema and the often-unrealistic expectations placed upon filmmakers by tycoons.
18. Elvis: Return to Tupelo (2008)
Elvis: Return to Tupelo is a documentary that offers a compelling look at the life and career of one of the most iconic music figures of all time — Elvis Presley. The film takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through Elvis’s early years, from his birth during the Great Depression to his formative high school days, and finally his triumphant homecoming concert in 1956, which was held on the same stage where he’d lost a talent contest eleven years prior.
19. American Grindhouse (2010)
Step into the gritty world of exploitation movies with the captivating documentary, American Grindhouse. Directed by Elijah Drenner, this film takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the history of these often-controversial films, from the silent-film era to the 1970s.
20. Final Cut: Ladies and Gentlemen (2012)
Final Cut: Ladies and Gentlemen (2012) is a unique and enchanting cinematic journey that blends the genres of comedy, drama, and romance. Directed by György Pálfi and written by Pálfi and Zsófia Ruttkay, this innovative film crafts a simple yet timeless love story through the artful editing of scenes from hundreds of other films. Starring Isabelle Adjani, Anouk Aimée, and Woody Allen, it’s an enthralling tribute to the world of cinema that challenges the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
21. Tab Hunter Confidential (2015)
Experience a fascinating journey into the life of matinee idol Tab Hunter with the documentary film “Tab Hunter Confidential” (2015). This riveting biographical piece highlights Hunter’s transformation from a teenage stable boy to a closeted Hollywood star during the 1950s.
22. The Disaster Artist (2017)
The Disaster Artist takes viewers on a hilarious and insightful journey into the world of Hollywood as it follows aspiring actors Greg Sestero and Tommy Wiseau. The film, directed by James Franco, chronicles their remarkable friendship that leads them to chase their dream of stardom in the land of make-believe. With a mix of comedy, drama, and the unexpected, The Disaster Artist offers an unforgettable portrayal of what it takes to succeed in a town that relentlessly craves it.
23. The Fabulous Allan Carr (2017)
“The Fabulous Allan Carr” is a 2017 documentary film that explores the life and career of the notorious producer, Allan Carr. Acclaimed for his work on hit films like “Grease” and “La Cage aux Folles, “ Carr’s star rose to new heights when he produced the infamous 1989 Academy Awards.
24. Natalie Wood: What Remains Behind (2020)
Natalie Wood: What Lies Beneath delves into the illustrious life and thriving career of the esteemed actress and famous personality through the lens of her daughter, Natasha Gregson Wagner, as well as other crucial individuals who knew her. This 1-hour, 40-minute documentary offers a distinctive perspective as it delves into Natalie Wood’s endeavors, spanning from her humble beginnings as a budding starlet in the studio system to her numerous marriages and the recognition she acquired.
25. Canaan Land (2020)
Canaan Land is a heartwarming Christmas drama, set for release in 2020. The film tells the story of Billy, a self-proclaimed psychic with a talent for con-artistry. Billy’s mischievous antics find an unexpected twist when he falls for Sister Sarah, a genuine evangelist with an unwavering faith in God.
