James Dean: Rebel Life

by John Howlett

'If a man can live on after he's died, then maybe he was a great man.' — James Dean

James Dean died in 1955. The star of three movies, he was aged just 24. Six decades later, the charismatic screen idol has lost none of his power to captivate. Revered by fresh generations of fans born years after his untimely death, the glamor of his limited but incandescent legacy of cinematic classics — East of Eden, Rebel Without a Cause and Giant — will never fade.

Drawn from extensive research and original interviews, James Dean: Rebel Life strips back the hype to reveal the man behind the myth. Filled with the testimonies of the actors, directors and ex-lovers who knew Dean best, and lavishly illustrated with candid photos (from boyhood up to Dean's untimely death) and sumptuous film stills, the book provides a uniquely personal insight into the life and times of Hollywood's tragic leading man — essential reading for fans of every generation.

Genres: Biography, Film, Nonfiction

200 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another interesting biography about James Dean. This one really went into depth about his movies and how he really related to he characters he was playing. I had read the biography by Dizzy Sheridan and she made is sound like they were quite the item--even considered marriage at one point. She doesn't play much of a factor in this book and is only mentioned on a page or two. Interesting to read different perspectives. I think it's fairly clear that no one really knew James Dean. He was really an enigma, but oh what a fascinating one!

[Taryn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Recently obsessed with him since visiting indiana and discovering this year marks the 50th anniversary of his death.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for my 16th birthday (I think) and recently found it again stuffed into a box of books. It is a very interesting read for fans. :)

[Christian · Rating 2 out of 5]

Howlett has a definite viewpoint and is relentless in pushing it. He portrays Dean as a sad, lonely, and isolated person that secretly is yearning to die- the textbook tormented artist. The basic information of the book is correct. However, Howlett is very liberal with his creative license to the point the book is almost a historical novel and not a biography. He presents conjecture and opinion as fact, and in most cases has no point of reference. He often quotes generic characters like uncle, cousin, boss, director, actor friend etc... instead of giving the source's name. Having read almost every James Dean book written in English. It is easy to spot quotes that no other biographer uses. Howlett's writing is good and he has a great vocabulary, but his substance is lacking.

[James Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

the image alone of James Dean is evocative of rebellion, this biography lacks alot of the personal revelations I have seen and read in other novels, it still captivates with its unflinching tell all of a true star.

James Deans legacy echoes even now, this showcases the man behind the myth.

[Mefal Ameti · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Dean by John Howlett reveals that you have to go through many struggles in order to be successful.


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