I've been a fan of James Dean for the last decade - that is, since my Tumblr days, which was back in 2013/2014. He was an incredibly talented actor. Plus he had the face of an angel. It's really sad he lost his life at only 24. Who knows where his acting career would've taken him. I've never seen any of his films, so I was excited when I discovered this TV episode from Schlitz Playhouse. He became synonymous in pop culture with the angsty, disillusioned teenager. I'd rather not have that image of him in my head, so I don't plan on seeing Rebel Without a Cause. Just looking at a gif online of the scene where he cries out to his parents "you're tearing me apart!" I could tell it's hard to watch. It was nice to see him portray a different type of character in The Unlighted Road - one that was more congruent to his age. He plays Jeff Lantham, a Korean War veteran who stops at a roadside diner for something to eat. He fixes the coffee machine, which prompts the owner to offer him a job, and he accepts. He also gets room and board. Then he meets a young woman (Ann Burnett), and they start dating. Things seem to be going well for him, until he gets caught up in a scheme as the transporter of stolen items after his boss promises him extra money. I know I posted a review of The File on Thelma Jordon saying I get annoyed watching a film (well, this is a show, but same difference) that has a lead character who's an idiot and gets talked into doing unscrupulous activities. But I made an exception in this case. Jeff is young and going through life with no loved ones or friends. Young people are often coerced into doing something that they know is wrong, especially when a much older person is telling them to do whatever it is. That's not the same as a middle aged man who built a household with a wife and children having an affair, and then helping his mistress cover up her past crimes. The story in The Unlighted Road is more believable. If you love James Dean like I do, don't just watch his films - his television performances are a must see. I'll be sure to watch more of them!
