In order to comprehensively examine one of the most important films of the Hollywood canon, these essays analyze the screenplay, Elia Kazan as director, Budd Schulberg as screenplay writer, Leonard Bernstein's score, and the reception of the film in classrooms. Collectively, they demonstrate how and why this film has been an enduring favorite among cineastes and movie buffs alike. A preface by Budd Schulberg, contemporary reviews, and reproductions of stills complete the volume.

In order to comprehensively examine one of the most important films of the Hollywood canon, these essays analyze the screenplay, Elia Kazan as director, Budd Schulberg as screenplay writer, Leonard Bernstein's score, and the reception of the film in classrooms. Collectively, they demonstrate how and why this film has been an enduring favorite among cineastes and movie buffs alike. A preface by Budd Schulberg, contemporary reviews, and reproductions of stills complete the volume.