“To grasp the full significance of life is the actor’s duty; to interpret it his problem; and to express it his dedication.”

James, young and lost. In 1955, the emerging actor starred in Kazan’s “East of Eden”. The overwhelming performance in “Rebel Without a Cause” made an icon out of a naïve boy. In 1955, the disillusioned seducer played, in “Giant”, a supporting role, making his final on-screen appearance. After his premature and violent death, he was crowned emblem of a generation. Dean, young and beautiful.

The artist’s innate allure showed through his signature look: white shirt, leather jacket, blue jeans. His aesthetic presence, built around the concepts of “casualness” and “simplicity”, still has a contemporary feel.

Next season is about reinterpreting a key piece: Sandro’s cropped biker jacket speaks the language of minimalism, Saint Laurent’s snake fringed jacket evokes Woodstock vibes, Balmain’s embroidered suede jacket is designed for a stylishly adventurous man. James Dean, young and damned.

On the 60th anniversary of the star’s death, a biopic celebrates his relationship with Dennis Stock, fueling the performer’s lasting fame. “LIFE” portrays a sense of rebellion, burning desire, marvellously excruciating fragility. “LIFE” takes the myth’s tormented gaze back onto the silver screen. “LIFE” gives colour to a faded photograph.

“Being a good actor isn’t easy. Being a man is even harder. I want to be both before I’m done.” J.D.