The James Dean Story

by Ronald Martinetti

A legend in his lifetime, James Dean became a cult hero after his death at age 24. Was he the monumental talent some claimed? Or a spoiled and petulant troublemaker? Ronald Martinetti interviewed hundreds of Dean's peers and family members for this no-punches-pulled biography revealing hitherto unknown facts about the actor. Illustrated with photos, some previously unpublished.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction

180 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Hannah Edmonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Dean became one of my favourite actors within a few minutes of seeing him in his first film, East of Eden when I was a teenager. Since then, I'd read as much as I could find online about him, but this is the first time I've read a biography.

Of course I knew as well as anyone else that he died aged 24 in a car accident. Knowing it is one thing, getting a feel for who he was through the author's careful research, and anecdotes from people who knew Dean best, was very different. I admit my eyes teared up during the last chapter of this all-too-short biography. The only good to come of the accident is that it's believed the young actor died instantly.

Everything James Dean turned his mind to he gave his all, whether that was acting, drumming, impressions or his love of racing. Despite his far too short life, Dean made such a huge impact with just three films and a few television appearances that he is still loved and talked about today.

This biography really shed light on who he was off-screen; he sounded like an interesting but troubled young man. I can't help but imagine how much more success he would've had if he hadn't died so tragically young. He obviously drew from his own experiences for his work, which I think is part of the reason his performances were so mesmerising. Everything he did was so believable and so moving. There are very few actors with the qualities he had.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

1st Read: September 22, 1998 - September 30, 1998

I knew who James Dean was, as in recognizing him from film and photos in books and magazines. There is quite a lot of depth in this book to who he was as a person by those who knew him best. It is an enjoyable read that you could complete in a few hours at only 185 pages. There are also quite a few black and white photo's in the central portion of the book as well.

[Chris Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The James Dean Story is not simply a book about Dean, but a piece of work that documents a cultural and historical moment in time in Hollywood. A fascinating story that needs to be told again and again, Martinetti captures the Hollywood character Dean became and the life numerous others would replicate.

[amelieee · Rating 4 out of 5]

blue jeans, white shirt
walked into the room you know you made
my eyes burn
it was like James Dean, for sure

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

It does shatter myths. He really did want success, fame, money. Was a serious actor yet could play the PR game and talk your ear off when he wanted. Not a death wish but a stupid, unfortunate traffic accident that these days would result in vehicular manslaughter charges brought upon the other driver. One point I had a problem with was they left out Eartha Kitt, who was a close friend from New York days. Otherwise, THE best Dean book I've read because it gets rid of BS myths that have been floating around for decades. You really get a sense of the real human behind this talented actor. It's tragic that he died so young. Giant was clearly the start of a solid career playing meaty adult roles. I
Iike to think that he would have directed also. Dennis Hopper, a friend, went that route. I would write more but I can't type well on these damned iPad keyboards.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This cover alone is enough to make anyone want to read this book! Great Biography & well written!

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not sure it shatters the myths but a good read anyway.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite book on Dean thus far.

[Elvira Pintac]

He's at the peak of his game. A little bit sad for me, knowing that the accident was something he could have avoided, if he only heed the advice of his friends. Still a life lived before that!