The legendary epic that's as big as Texas.

Starring: Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, James Dean, Carroll Baker, Jane Withers, Chill Wills, Mercedes McCambridge, Dennis Hopper, Sal Mineo, Rod Taylor, Judith Evelyn, Earl Holliman, Robert Nichols, Paul Fix, Alexander Scourby

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"You come down here and you try to tell us how to run things, insultin' my friends and everything. Now, you look here Leslie, you're my wife, Mrs Jordan Benedict, and I'm asking you right now, when are you gonna settle down and behave like everybody else?" – Bick Benedict to his feisty wife, Leslie

Why watch this? This Lone Star epic pulls no punches and delivers big time!

Plot Summary: Wealthy Texas rancher Bick Benedict travels to Maryland and returns with a cultured bride, Leslie, whose Eastern sensibilities clash with the traditional Texas way of life. Their story unfolds over two decades as they navigate challenges including changing social attitudes, racial prejudice against Mexican Americans, and the disruptive emergence of the oil industry. The film also follows the rise of Jett Rink, a resentful former ranch hand who strikes oil and becomes a powerful, wealthy businessman, creating a tense rivalry with Bick.

Dad's Preview: This family saga, based on Edna Ferber's 1952 novel, captures the expanse of Texas drama just as the ranchers and the oilmen grew into two indomitable forces who would slug it out over the next 80 years, some say even still today. As a Texan, I appreciate how they portrayed the characters - nothing is sugar-coated. It feels pretty dang honest based on my experiences. The cast and scenic shots are incredible, even breathtaking. James Dean, as the shady, bittered Jett Link, out-acts them all. Sadly, this would be the iconic actor's last film, as he died in a car crash before the film opened at age 24. Giant was nominated for nine Oscars, but won only one: George Stevens for Best Director. So, hitch up your spurs, and take a ride to Reata Ranch.

George Stevens, Henry Ginsberg; Warner Bros. Pictures