12040/​86

Ted McCord: An original b/w press or still photograph of the American actor James Dean (1931–1955) in his role as Cal Trask in the movie “East of Eden” from 1955. Based upon the novel of John Steinbeck. Back with smeared dates of publication (April 15th 1955 [?], May 26th 1956). Photo size 25×20 cm. Frame size 43×33 cm.

James Dean had his movie debut in 1955 in “East of Eden”, where he plays a rejected son who seeks to gain the respect and love of an obstinated father. The setting is rural California in the years before World War I. The role was largely repeated, yet in a more contemporary environment, in “Rebel Without a Couse” - also from 1955 - that takes place among high school students and deals with the conflicts found here. Finally, in 1956, he played the loner Jett Rink in “Giant”, a young man gradually breaking down.

Both “Rebel Without a Cause” and “Giant” got their first perfomances after the death of James Dean. The shooting of “Giant” had only just ended at the time of his fatal accident.

James Dean's way of acting - awkward movements and faltering lines - were marked by the teaching he received at Actors' Studio in 1952.

Condition

This is an original b/w press or still photography from 1955. Modest signs of handling. Back slightly yellow due to ageing.

Auction

Art, antiques & collector's items, 1 October 2020

Category
Estimate

1,000 DKK

Sold

Price realised

700 DKK  

5 bids

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