Richard Thomas of 'Waltons' fame stars here as Jimmy J., an Arkansas undergrad in the 1950s who idolizes rising film star James Dean. He feels a kinship with the young actor, thinking that their lives have mirrored each others'. When he learns of Deans' death, he goes a little crazy, dragging his friends into assorted escapades that ultimately have a sad result.
Written and directed by James Bridges ("The China Syndrome"), this little period piece seems to be somewhat forgotten nowadays. It's not always terribly compelling or interesting, but it's still worthy of some respect, considering the way that it examines the fascination that some people feel for movie stars. Dean in particular had an iconic presence that resonated with a generation; it's not hard to believe that his passing was deeply felt by people like Jimmy J.
A mixture of comedy and drama, "September 30, 1955" is sometimes amusing and sometimes poignant, leaving us with one memorable showcase speech for Thomas, and the idea that life is not really "like a movie" as some folks might think.
The period recreation is pretty good, and the film benefits from a touching score by Leonard Rosenman, who had scored the Dean vehicles "East of Eden" and "Rebel Without a Cause" once upon a time. But the main reason to watch is the talented, engaging young cast, some of them making their feature-film debuts. Thomas is wonderful, and his supporting actors make for an endearing ensemble: Deborah Benson (leading lady in the superior slasher "Just Before Dawn") as Jimmy J.'s girlfriend, Lisa Blount ("Prince of Darkness") as the fellow free spirit and Dean devotee, Thomas Hulce ("Amadeus") as the roommate, Dennis Christopher ("Breaking Away") as the sidekick, and Dennis Quaid as the jock. Collin Wilcox Paxton ("To Kill a Mockingbird") plays Jimmy J.'s mother, and Susan Tyrrell ("Forbidden Zone") plays Billie Jean's mom.
A semi-autobiographical tale for Bridges, who grew up in Paris, Arkansas himself.
Seven out of 10.
