Episode 134 - Giant

“Giant” from 1956 is the sprawling, multiple decades story of the Benedict family, Jeff Rink, strong women, oil, cattle, conflict in race relations, power, political influence and the gulf between wealth and poverty. Edna Ferber’s 1952 novel is brought to life on a large, 3 hour 18 minute Academy Award winning, scale by Director George Stevens. “Shane” 1953 is another award winning film from Mr. Stevens and is discussed in our Episodes 91 and 92. Elizabeth Taylor as Leslie Benedict, Rock Hudson as Jordan Benedict Jr., Jett Rink played by James Dean, Elsa Cardenas as Juana Villalobos Benedict and Sal Mineo as Angel Obregon II are part of a large cast in this many faceted story played out on the Texas stage from the 1920’s up to the 1950’s. More than twenty primary characters contribute to the breadth of the drama. In 2009, “Giant” the musical, with a 3 hour and 45 minute length, premiered at the Signature Theater in Arlington, Virginia. The musical premiered Off-Broadway in 2012 to positive reviews. In our opinion “Giant” contributes to the long journey of presenting a wider perception and understanding of people from very different backgrounds. We hope you enjoy our review.