He was a cult hero, although his movie career spanned less than two years. Can you name the three films in which James Dean starred? And what kind of car was James Dean driving when he was killed near Salinas, California?

James Dean's meteoric rise to fame was incredibly brief, yet his impact on popular culture remains profound. He starred in only three major films, all released within a two-year span: "East of Eden" (1955), "Rebel Without a Cause" (1955), and "Giant" (1956). These roles cemented his image as a symbol of youthful angst and rebellion, resonating deeply with audiences of the 1950s and beyond.

Dean's untimely death at the age of 24, before two of his three films were even released, tragically solidified his status as a cult hero. His performances, particularly as Jim Stark in "Rebel Without a Cause," captured the disillusionment and social estrangement felt by many teenagers, making him an enduring icon. His raw emotional power and sensitivity in these roles earned him two posthumous Academy Award nominations, a rare achievement for such a short career.

The tragic accident that claimed Dean's life occurred on September 30, 1955, near Salinas, California. He was driving his brand-new Porsche 550 Spyder, a car he had nicknamed "Little Bastard." Dean was on his way to a car race when his Porsche collided with another vehicle, killing him instantly. The low-slung, silver Porsche 550 Spyder, designed for racing, became forever linked to the legend of James Dean.