In California’s Salinas Valley on the eve of America’s entry into World War I, troubled young Cal Trask (James Dean) desperately seeks the love and approval of his stern, deeply religious father (Raymond Massey), who openly favors Cal’s more dutiful brother, Aron. When Cal discovers a shocking family secret, his efforts to win his father’s affection set off a chain of jealousy, betrayal, and heartbreak. Adapted from John Steinbeck’s celebrated novel, Elia Kazan’s sweeping CinemaScope drama explores the timeless struggle between good and evil, the wounds of parental rejection, and the desperate human longing to be loved.

“An amazingly high-strung, feverishly poetic movie” — Pauline Kael

“East of Eden is Kazan’s best film” — David Thomson