James Dean: Rebel Generation

This documentary explores how James Dean redefined masculinity and adolescence through his roles in three films shot in 1955: Rebel Without a Cause, East of Eden, and Giant. By portraying sensitive and conflicted young men, he became a symbol of youth rebellion and a contrast to the traditional male heroes of his time. The film utilizes archive footage of Dean and commentary from those who knew him to examine his brief career and the lasting influence of his image following his death in a car accident at age 24.

Directed by Cyril Leuthy, this was the first of two films he released in 2025, followed by The War Of The Worlds: The Prophetic Novel. The production was a French project supported by Ciné+, CNC, OCS, and ARTE, with Cathy Palumbo and Victor Robert serving as producers. The cast features archive footage of James Dean, with narration provided by Coraly Zahonero and Julien de Saint Jean. The film received the Prix Michel Ciment at the 2025 Pessac History Film Festival.