Watch September 30, 1955

September 30, 1955 is a poignant drama that explores the impact of a tragic event on a small town community in the American South in the mid-20th century. The film is directed by James Bridges and stars Richard Thomas, Susan Tyrrell, and Deborah Benson. The story centers on the character of Jimmy J. (Richard Thomas), a teenage rock 'n' roll fan who idolizes James Dean and dreams of escaping his mundane life in rural Alabama. On September 30, 1955, the day James Dean died in a car crash, Jimmy and his friends set out on a road trip to see Dean's hometown memorial service in Fairmont, Indiana.

However, their trip takes a tragic turn when they are involved in a car accident on their way back to Alabama. The ensuing events not only shatter Jimmy's dreams but also expose the deep-seated prejudices and divisions within his community.

Richard Thomas delivers a heartfelt and nuanced performance as Jimmy, capturing both the character's youthful naïveté and his struggle to come to terms with the harsh realities of life. Susan Tyrrell is equally impressive as Jimmy's mother, a chain-smoking, hard-drinking woman who is haunted by a dark secret from her past.

Deborah Benson plays Lisa, a young black woman who is witness to the accident and becomes embroiled in the ensuing controversy when it is revealed that one of the passengers in Jimmy's car was a black man. Lisa's character serves as a powerful symbol of the racial tensions that permeate the small Southern town and the courage it takes to stand up against injustice.

The film's cinematography, by Reynaldo Villalobos, masterfully captures the desolate beauty of the Alabama countryside and the small details of everyday life in the 1950s. The film's soundtrack, which includes classic rock 'n' roll hits from the era, sets the mood and adds an authentic touch to the film.

September 30, 1955 is a film that explores universal themes of loss, regret, and acceptance, while also shining a light on the specific struggles faced by individuals in a segregated Southern town. It is a powerful and poignant drama that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

September 30, 1955 is a 1977 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.