Richard Thomas, underrated star of The Waltons, gives an appealing turn as a college boy in emotional turmoil over his idol James Dean's death on the day of the title. Extremely unusual story satisfies through its study of a group of Arkansas college town buddies and its attempt to get to grips with the nature of fame and star worship. The story moves in an unexpected direction, and the performing of the young cast (including Tom Hulce, Dennis Christopher and debuting Dennis Quaid) catches the eye, compensating for a few hesitancies in plotting and handling. Effective and likeable.


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