This epic film starts in the beginning of 1920s in a ranch in Texas and reaches the post-war growth of the oil industry. Among many secondary characters, in the lead roles are the rancher (Rock Hudson), his wife (Elizabeth Taylor) and the ranch hand (James Dean), who eventually becomes an oil baron. The film is important because it broaches racism against Mexican Americans. Moreover, noteworthy are Steven’s use of editing dissolves within single scenes, the multiple character perspectives of the subplots, the fight scenes and the poetic moments in the vast horizons of Texas.

George Stevens (1904-1975), born in California, was an important director of the Golden Age of Hollywood. He began as a cinematographer in the films of Laurel and Hardy. His first films are comedies and romantic dramas, which have nevertheless humanist dimensions. During World War II he shot war footage; nevertheless in his post-war dramatic films there exist deeper humanist concerns. Many of his films were nominated for and won Oscars. He won the Best Director Oscar twice for A place in the Sun (1951) and The giant (1956).

Photos: Giant © 1956 WBEI