The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford Movie
Storyline
TAGLINES PLOT SUMMARY
Robert Ford, who's idolized Jesse James since childhood, tries hard to join the reforming gang of the Missouri outlaw, but gradually becomes resentful of the bandit leader.
| Brad Pitt | Jesse James |
| Mary-Louise Parker | Zee James |
| Brooklynn Proulx | Mary James |
| Dustin Bollinger | Tim James |
| Casey Affleck | Robert Ford |
| Sam Rockwell | Charley Ford |
| Jeremy Renner | Wood Hite |
| Sam Shepard | Frank James |
| Garret Dillahunt | Ed Miller |
| Paul Schneider | Dick Liddil |
| Joel McNichol | Express Messenger |
| James Defelice | Baggagemaster |
| J.C. Roberts | Engineer |
| Darrell Orydzuk | Ukranian Train Passenger |
| Jonathan Erich Drachenberg | Young Train Passenger |
| Andrew Dominik |
7.80 out of 10 (33432 votes)
Visitor Reviews
Majestic Sadness
posted on 28 Aug 2009There's a lot to be said of a movie whose title dares spoil the punch right from the get go, since in a way in doesn't really. Of course Jesse James ends up assassinated by Robert Ford - just as we knew the Titanic sinks, Marty gets back to the future and Fredo Corleone is a wuss. What it truly spoils though is the irony; History remembers Robert Ford as a sniveling weasel who killed his friend to get famous and rich while Jesse was a Jolly-Golly great guy who loved everyone and never had an evil bone in his body. But the truth, although probably truncated a bit in the film for dramatic purposes, was much more complex, sad and dark.The story picks up Jesse James during his last big job with brother Frank, and a bunch of hired tugs to help out since the original gang members were all either dead or in jail. One of them, Robert Ford, initially tries to become a sidekick to his childhood idol Jesse, only to realize that the myth was much larger and sunnier than the man. As health leaves Jesse while paranoia gains him, both men will lock themselves in crash course with an inevitability that plagues whatever is left or their lives.Many naysayers and critics of the film denounce its length -2 and a half hours- for making it a boring montage of depressing tableaux. Lucky for them the original 4-hour cut was trimmed down for theatrical release, but that's besides the point. Their real beef is that most movie goers were expecting a western, an epic with lush action sequences and great moments of emotional roller coasters. The absence of which is what actually makes it such a piece of art.The very melancholic (and striking) music brings forth and carries a sense of doom and sadness throughout the film, adding to the forbearing narration which puts the viewer on a path to feeling heartbreak for all of its protagonists. With the "mystery" out of the equation, the viewer is allowed to experience the true surprise and discovery - knowing who exactly was Jesse James as a man, what could go through the mind of his killer, what influence did they both have living and dead. Truly majestic editing allows such discoveries and appreciation, even beyond the titular event which isn't the end of the line.All of it would mean nothing without outstanding performances, by all involved. Of course Brad Pitt is Brad Pitt, with all of his usual ticks and mannerism, but the man also carries tremendous charisma which is a trait everyone seems to agree on for the famous outlaw. The true acclaim however goes to his cast-mates, none of them stars or A-listers but each and everyone respected and admirable thespians, bringing much grounded credibility to the project. To be noted among them are Paul Schneider (previously noticed in "Elizabethtown" and "The Family Stone"), Micheal Parks, the always lovely Zooey Deschanel in a blink-and-you'll-miss appearance and even left-wing commentator James Carville as a self-righteous state governor.All of them are however overshadowed by the increasingly amazing Casey Affleck, who brings such a mixed bag of mystery, emotions and empathy to his character or Robert Ford that along with "Gone Baby Gone", little-bro Casey has managed to completely shatter the perception of being nothing else than Big Ben's sibling.A piece of advice - WATCH the movie, in peace and tranquility, without interruption. It is truly one of those epics that deserve such attention to be fully digested and understood.
A Legend Born and a Coward Ignored
posted on 28 Aug 2009"The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" says it all, but it has even more than meets the eye. Not only is the title a spoiler, but it sums up the two main characters. JESSE JAMES is in BIG BOLD letters like the legend he is while Robert Ford is hardly noticed underneath his name with the publicly attached "coward" in front it. The title allows us to sit back and enjoy the journey of Robert Ford in his quest to become famous and Jesse James' journey into infamy and legendary myth. The film stars Brad Pitt as the notorious Jesse James. Brad Pitt delivers an incredible performance. This may be his crowing achievement along with the character, Tyler Durden, which he played to perfection in "Fight Club." He plays Jesse James like he's bipolar so we never know what he's thinking or what he's capable of doing at any given minute under any given circumstance. One minute he's jovial and the next he's ripping at Robert Ford's head as he presses a knife to his throat with a demented look in his eyes just screaming of a homicidal maniac. Brad Pitt doesn't play him perfectly and some will notice the infamous Tyler Durden laugh peeking through, but it's a great performance that is thoroughly layered with deep, dark and buried emotions. It is worthy of a nomination at the very least. Jesse James' past and his actions seem to haunt him. Pitt plays a man suffering from a deep and very dark depression as he tries to hide his inner demons with good nature and laughter. Jesse James always knows what's going on. He's very cerebral in his actions. He's like a homicide detective with his carefully intimidating probing of terrified subjects as he looks for answers, but finds nothing but lies. James finds himself all alone surrounded by people that are looking to get paid off by giving him up to the law. Jesse James is always on the run and we gradually see him become tired of running and tired of living the way he is. His insomnia keeps him up at all hours as he lives in fear and paranoia. The assassination scene, one of the best scenes in the film, is incredible and shockingly suspenseful, as well as chilling. The pacing in that scene is deliberate and thought provoking, which will leave you thinking about it long after you see it.Casey Affleck plays the "coward," Robert Ford. He is surly Oscar worthy here and undoubtedly gives the performance of his lifetime in a career year- "Gone Baby Gone". He plays Robert Ford as a weird, meticulous, well intentioned admirer of Jesse James thrust into his inner circle. He's the youngest brother of five boys. He's the weak one. He's the one always made fun of. He's always overlooked or looked down upon. Robert Ford is an uncomfortable person to be around and Affleck plays him perfectly as a very odd young man with an obsession of Jesse James and the James gang that cross over boundaries of more than just admiration. He wants to be so much apart of that gang that, that's all he has ever wanted since he was a young child reading the fascinating stories of the James gang, and his legendary idol, Jesse James. He wants the fame and the respect that Jesse has, and he wants to be apart of something grand. He wants to know what it feels like to be Jesse James; in his shoes. As he joins the gang he starts to feel the pressure of Jesse James, and his feelings of the man start to change. When Robert Ford is sent to capture and arrest Jesse James is when Jesse James becomes haunting as he watches his every move, and death seems immanent to both Robert Ford and his brother, Charley (Sam Rockwell). Robert Ford becomes every bit as famous after the murder as James was, then the people stop caring and they start hating. The final act of the film may be the most impressive since we see the kind of backfire stardom can have on you in a celebrity obsessed culture- even in the late 19th century. The journey leading to the assassination and the incredible acting is something to truly admire and become utterly fascinated to watch unfold. The acting was just incredible even with some of the smaller parts, especially, with the lying and conniving, Charley Ford, or the funny, smart and very creepy, Dick Liddil (Paul Schneider). The acting on a whole was fantastic and no one upstaged anyone. The four main characters are all fantastic and all very different. The cinematography was absolutely beautiful and mesmerizing in being some of the greatest film has to offer. The scenery is vast and breathtaking. The way some of the images are shot with blurred and distorted edges gives the audience the same feelings of the blurred perceptions between myth and fact. There are several shots through distorted windows giving a blurred outlook on this folklore world that Dominik creates. We never really are sure if something happened this way since the truth has been lost in myth and legend. The set and costume designs were fantastic along with the argot. It feels as if you have been transported back to the late 1880s. It's a slow character study and wonderful cinematic piece of art. The score is both beautiful and haunting matching the tone of the film to perfection. This is one of the decades best films. Andrew Dominik deserves a lot of credit for this masterpiece.
Little Action And Limited Dialogue In A Movie Almost Totally Devoid Of Passion
posted on 26 Aug 2009As I sat for almost three hours struggling to make it through this snooze fest I struggled to figure out how so many people can have so many good things to say about this movie. For some inexplicable reason, the longest and most boring movies often seem to be the most highly regarded (almost as if people think that there's some sort of artistic value in being able to put together a movie so long and yet so dull) but come on. For a movie with such a dramatic sounding title, this one is a major disappointment. There's very little action in it, the dialogue is extremely limited and delivered in a passionless monotone most of the way through, the sombre and slow musical score adds to the drudgery and even the narration is offered in a voice reminiscent of an elderly college professor who's gone over the same material year after year for decades and can't wait to retire and finally be rid of it. I thought Brad Pitt would put more energy into the role of the famous outlaw Jesse James, but he comes across as dry as the rest of the movie. Ben Affleck was maybe slightly more intriguing as Robert Ford but not much.The movie begins with the James gang's last major job and documents the beginning of the relationship between Ford and James. From the little I know about Jesse James the movie seems to be fairly accurate, but the focus of the movie is more on Ford and his gradual turning against James, leading up - as the title states - to James' killing. The look at Ford's life after James' killing was a bit interesting, although a lot was left out between the end of the stage show Ford and his brother put together that portrayed the killing and Ford's own demise (mercifully so, given the already excessive length of this production.) Needless to say, I didn't care too much for this movie. 2/10
A crime that is too elegant to punish
posted on 22 Aug 2009This is one of the best films I've ever seen. The direction, acting, and cinematography are superb. This is one of the few films where the dialogs are remarkably spontaneous as if they were almost the way how real people talk in real life. I was just stunned.I must commend Sam Rockwell's acting. He was really good. I always knew he had a talent and this movie brought out the best from him.The story has stitched the perfect web of entanglement that portrayed a poignant and discomforting human aspect.As regards Brad Pitt's acting, I must say that he had some good and bad points.First, it was not the way real men cry. When alpha men cry, they must not show facial expressions of sadness; when they cry, the tears just flow and when somebody catches them crying, they deny it as if they never cried. Brad Pitt failed to portray this in more than three instances.Brad Pitt cannot avoid having to show off his pretty boy image when he does his cute expressions that they make him appear he wanted to appear in his 'cute' trademark shot. He did this, like, twice, which almost ruined the portrayal of an outlaw. It was just like, Pitt wanted to appear as a cute outlaw.Brad Pitt performed as demanded in most parts of the film, but I will still have reservations towards him if I were to give the Best Actor award.The scenery was powerful. Outstanding cinematography.The film showed a little more than what the story needed to tell. It would have sufficed to have told what happened to Robert Ford after he killed Jesse James in writing. Giving lots of details to what happened to him only added more insult to his injury as if rubbing salt to a wound. Denouement in this point was unnecessary.It is by far the film where I saw the best acting of Casey Affleck. He was able to take my approval when it comes to "Surprised" scenes. He did a good job. He did a great acting but he was not able to perfectly portray a character that was not his age. Although Casey looked young, several years younger than the person he is older than (Paul Schneider), his body language, mannerisms, and the way he talked always revealed his true age. I noticed them, thinking that Casey was young and before confirming his real age.It must be a crime not to commend the acting performances of Paul Schneider, Sam Shepard, James Defelice, and most especially Garret Dillahunt (Ed Miller). I could really not ask for more.Overall, this movie is great and to me, it will become a classic and an icon.
An analysis of one of the most beautiful, mysterious and compelling films ever made.
posted on 20 Aug 2009Some have complained that the title of the film renders the film pointless. It is not a matter of what, but why. Why would Ford take the life of his, and the entire nations, personal hero?The first shots show Jesse wandering through the fields, the burning sky framing his mystery, the endless fields showcasing his isolation; it's clear why he's so iconic. Jesse James is Pitts career best performance. Pitt pulls off the many aspects of Jesse's complex personality, dark scenes of lying smiles, interrogative glares and even tender moments with his children, but he also reserves true emotion behind a blank and tired face. The thoughts going through Jesse's mind during his final days, and indeed, final moments are left entirely up to the viewer to decide; Pitt gives nothing away.The immense psychological detail of the two main characters gives the impression that we have seen them all their lives, I can imagine a young Robert Ford gazing at a picture of Jesse James, just as I can imagine Jesse James committing his first murder. The characterisation is so deep that two fully formed lives are mapped out; we see hints of each character's history that will inevitably lead to their downfall. In one of the most beautiful shot and lit scenes I've ever seen a night train is plundered by Jesse James and his gang, Jesse stands up on a blockade as the train slows down in front of him, his silhouette formed in fog and glowing light through the darkness; it's images like this that were passed down and travelled across the world to form his legend.To call Jesse James an enigma is false; because he cannot be solved. Not by his wife, not by his gang of thieves, not by himself. Towards and including the third act of the film he is lost in his mind, relentlessly trying to level himself, gazing out at the world he has conquered; it is impossible for him to ever return from his self caused paranoia and existential turmoil. In one scene Jesse ruthlessly beats a young boy for information. In the next shot we see him crying into his horse, he looks up and around, then carries on crying. He doesn't understand his own actions; he can't comprehend his own instinctual nature.In the best shot of the film Jesse and Fords brother Charley approach an iced over lake, Charley hesitates with the horses, an empty faced Jesse walks on and wearily crouches down on the ice, a huge mountain behind him aligned perfectly with his huge coat covered body; the truth in a shot, the world sees him as an omnipotent force of nature, a mountain who cannot be moved, when in actuality he is just a man filled with regret, fear and aggression. One man who hopelessly believes he understands Jesse is Robert Ford. Played to perfection by Casey Affleck, his childlike smile and lazy eyes add more innocence and misunderstanding to the pathetic loner, just as Pitts piercing blue eyes elevate the criminal to a demonic presence. Ford's sinister, nervous voice hides a character that should be pitied, he's a child following his dream, uncontrollable and reckless, and out of his depth.It is obvious that Ford is in love with Jesse. He is obsessed with Jesse's character, so it is only natural that an obsessive admiration would turn into a longing and desire. For those who still doubt the homosexual undertones, consider the scene in which Ford creeps towards a bathing Jesse, always alert Jesse senses him and they converse. Eventually Ford begins to leave, but he lingers a moment longer and stares at Jesse from behind, his face softens and his hands wander up and caress the door frame. This scene works as a confirmation of Ford's deeper desire for Jesse, but also as a foreshadowing of the true reason behind Jesse's death.Minutes before his death Jesse removes his guns from around his waist, in a life defined by violence, the removal of his guns is him at his most free; he is ready for death; his soul is at peace for the first time in his life. James wanted to die, he and Ford were connected in that final moment, and Jesse knew that Ford loved him enough to pull the trigger.The title isn't as it is to brand Ford a coward, it is there to show the power of popular opinion. The celebrity image of Jesse is formed by half truths and lies. On a basic level, Ford did the world a favour by killing Jesse James, he was on the edge of insanity, and even a sane Jesse James is the most dangerous man in the world, if he had gone over the edge who knows what he may have done. But that is the nature of celebrity. Never hearing the full story, never seeing the full picture and only being told what you want to hear. The world saw Ford as a coward, a man who shot the greatest man out of a desire for fame and fortune (which is the story he self destructively sticks to) but we can see plainly that he was just an impressionable, naive young outcast who delved too deep into what he wanted. He expected Jesse to take him under his wing, polish him into the next great criminal of his generation, to become the next Jesse James. In a sick twist of fate Ford got what he wanted, he did become Jesse James, only he became the real, spiritually scarred and emotionally distraught man, not the public's gun-toting hero. Unfortunately, the tragic cycle continued. The mythology surrounding James killed him, as it did for Ford. Another Jesse obsessed fan only saw in him the Coward Robert Ford. Ford was a celebrity, but he was not celebrated, so he was assassinated.
Moody, a bit overblown, but fairly good.
posted on 16 Aug 2009If nothing else, this film should have won an Oscar for longest title of 2007. The Asassination of Jesse James... is the story of the final days in the life of the legendary outlaw, and the mousy young man who ends his life. This film has many strengths, but it just meanders a bit too much to really move its intended audience. More than anything, you'll remember the beautiful cinematography by Roger Deakins. He was nominated for an Oscar for his work on No Country For Old Men, and his work here may have been even better.The film begins with Jesse James (Brad Pitt) and his brother Frank (Sam Shepard) staging one last big train robbery. By this point in their careers, they are the last of their original gang still together. The rest of the guys they use for the job are a motley crew of low-lifes from the backwoods of their native Missouri. One of these fellows, who literally just walks into their camp and tries to suck up to everyone, is a young man named Robert Ford. Casey Affleck plays this young man who seems to have read and memorized about everything ever written about Jesse James and considers him a hero. Nobody seems to even want to talk to the lad except Jesse James himself. Maybe he's just being polite as a famous athlete would to a young autograph seeker. But when the robbery goes down, Ford is right there with the gang, and the robbery is a success. After the job, the gang splits up except for Ford who Jesse inexplicably allows to stay with him for a brief spell. After a while he is finally sent packing, but by this point their destinies are intertwined, and anyone who reads the movie's full title will certainly know what happens in the end.There are some great things about this film to be sure. The acting is outstanding. Casey Affleck earned his Oscar nomination. He is exceptional as the skittish young man Robert Ford who dreams of fame, but understands that the most sure fire way to get it is to kill his hero. Brad Pitt is.... well, he isn't bad as Jesse James. Maybe its a sign that his acting is finally getting better if I can't tell you he was terrible like he usually is. Sam Shephard was miscast, but it still would have been better if he'd been in the film past the first half hour. His Frank James character splits for the east coast after the initial robbery. Sam Rockwell, as Robert Ford's brother, is pretty good, as well. Pacing is a problem for this film, and almost sinks it. The first 45 minutes or so are outstanding. Then, the film just seems to evaporate for a while and nothing of note happens. The final 45 minutes or so are also outstanding as the film redeems itself with a very insightful ending. We see that Robert Ford becomes more "infamous" rather than famous after shooting Jesse James in the back of the head. Luckily, the great look of the film helps pass the time during the dead spots.It almost seems like the art of cinematography is being reborn in Hollywood. For too long now, people have been letting CGI do all the work, and not catching the magic of the outdoors on real film as well. Remember back to the 1970s when nearly every film looked this good. The days of Laszlo Kovacs, Vilmos Zsigmond, and Nestor Almendros were wonderful. It looks like people are starting to care what their films look like once again. This film cost roughly 30 million dollars to make. It barely made a tenth of that in theaters. It's hard to say who they thought their audience was going to be for this film. Most western fans demand more action, hence the huge payday for 3:10 to Yuma last fall. The Asassination of Jesse James is nothing like that, and many casual viewers may not even get through it. I'd recommend it, but it is not quite a great film. 7 of 10 stars.The Hound.
Serious, poetic and beautifully shot western
posted on 14 Aug 2009Simply put, I thought that "The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford" was a cracking piece of work. Serious, poetic and a beautifully shot western, built on excellent central performances by Brad Pitt as Jesse James and Casey Affleck as Robert Ford respectively.Brad Pitt's Jesse James is hardly an American folk hero. He is a nasty piece of work. Unstable, unpredictable, tormented and ruthless. A dominant personality. People are afraid of Jesse James and rightly so. It is one of the best performances of Pitt's career. Forget Pitt as A-lister and tabloid fodder and think about Pitt as the great character actor that he undoubtedly is.As good as Pitt is, the true revelation here is the performance of Casey Affleck. I have only ever been aware of Affleck as Ben's brother and as the comic relief in "Ocean's Eleven", "Ocean's Twelve" and "Ocean's Thirteen". There is nothing in those films that could prepare you for his work in "The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford". Just outstanding. If he does not get a Supporting Actor nod at the Oscars next month, I will be very much surprised.Casey Affleck's Robert Ford is a slightly creepy, slightly dislikeable man who is trying way too hard. He is very much a small man trying to be a big man and in the process manages to get in way over his head. His initial hero worship of Jesse James turns into something disappointing, destructive and tragic."The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford" is a great film. Quite a long film, but engrossing throughout. The hours just shot by. It is early days yet, but I think it is my film of the year so far.
"you oughtta pity me, too"
posted on 27 Jul 2009Fine acting, brilliant photography, and many simple, truthful moments are undermined by Andrew Dominik's tendency to repeat himself. As in his frequently excellent CHOPPER, he here allows an interesting first act to degenerate into a meandering second and redundant third. Basically he reveals all his cards too soon, leaving nothing really important to happen later. Remember, class: if the audience is ahead of you, you might be moving too slowly.A tone poem can be a fine thing - BADLANDS, RUMBLE FISH, FIVE EASY PIECES, THE PROPOSITION, PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID are fine films, and as much about mood as plot; but then, each of those does have a coherent beginning, middle, and end. All we get in ASSASSINATION is a series of reminders that hero worship is a hollow calling. This is a theme, yes, but not a story. A climax that's a foregone conclusion is, theoretically, perfectly acceptable - see any Greek tragedy - but you've got to give us something to care about in between the prologue and the final chorus. A story is the usual device, and a story never hurts.Instead, we get Roger Deakins' bleak and moving portrait of a melancholy moment in Missouri history. I often feel, watching his work, that Roger Deakins should photograph every movie. But he isn't a writer, and he can't give us a story that's not in the script.Fortunately for all of us, Dominik has cast his movie with profound judgment and taste. Sam Shepard, Garret Dillahunt, Sam Rockwell, Paul Schneider, Michael Parks, Ted Levine - a Western ensemble as good as any since MISSOURI BREAKS. The women are very good, what little we see of them. Casey Affleck is many times the actor his big brother will ever be. Brad Pitt pretty much smirks his way through yet another performance, but once again it mostly fits the character, and to be fair he has his share of subtle, poignant scenes.To be really fair, though, it must be said that many of these scenes are just variations on earlier moments that required no elaboration.
A visually sumptuous Western bio-myth...
posted on 25 Jul 2009..."The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" is Aussie auteur Andrew "Chopper" Dominik's sophomore effort, and a fine one it is thanks to an intelligent, compelling screenplay, strong production values, and top-rank acting all around. Though shot in Canada, the film captures late 19th century America with a painter's vision. The photography by the esteemed Roger "Sid and Nancy" Deakins veers at times into the territory of exquisite, especially in conjunction with the powerful score by Nick "Birthday Party" Cave and Warren "The Road" Ellis. The story centers on the odd relationship of the title characters: the one a charismatic bandit, a family man on the run, the other an idolatrous youth who becomes far more invested in his anti-hero than he ever imagined. Brad "You have to ask?" Pitt portrays James with suitable gravitas and sympathy, while Casey "Soul Survivors" Affleck surmounts the obvious age disparity between himself and the character he plays with a fully nuanced performance that simultaneously attracts and repels, easily earning his Oscar nomination for the role. The supporting cast is strong as well, notably in the persons of Sam "Galaxy Quest" Rockwell as Charlie Ford, Garret "Deadwood" Dillahunt as Ed Miller, and Paul "Elizabethtown" Schneider as Dick Liddil. Sadly, Mary-Louise "Grand Canyon" Parker is mostly wasted as James' wife, and Zooey "Almost Famous" Deschanel likewise as a minor character. Of even greater interest to me was the definite suggestion that James recognized Ford as the agent of his own conflicted suicidal tendencies. Opinions I've read elsewhere of a homo-erotic subtext between the two characters are, I think, unwarranted. Regardless, "...Jesse James..." is cinematic art of a high order, despite its novelistic, episodic nature (c.f. the voice-over and various flashbacks), and highly recommended by this reviewer.
An absolute must-see for fans of the America's longest-standing iconic figure
posted on 23 Jul 2009Andrew Dominik's 'Jesse James' is a picture of grand scales and grave tales that is as intoxicating as it is disquieting, and as tranquil as it is beautiful. Dominik's scrupulous study of the two title characters never digresses throughout the film's lengthy showcase and permeates the grounded minds and hearts of its viewers, whose once sturdy estimation of Jesse James is demolished in light of the classic outlaw's truest depiction.The explicit detail of Hansen's novel is evident in each scene of 'James' and is transmitted sinuously by Dominik, leaving little difference between the original text and its ensuing screenplay – which unfolds into an exercise on photographed literature that skips from scene to scene poetically and fluidly. In fact, Jesse James is one of the few films I've ever seen in which the dialogue is so cleanly delivered (whether it's in the first person or narrated in the third person) that if one were to close their eyes, they could just as easily visualize the happenings of the film as they could if they were watching it. Yet, the transposed script by Andrew Dominik could undoubtedly have fallen to failure had it not been for his outstanding cast. Fortunately, the cast succeeded, and did so by following the lead of its stars, Pitt and Affleck, who both bid phenomenal performances.Brad Pitt's portrayal of the Missouri bandit will corrupt every molecule of its onlookers through simple, yet inimitable glares and gestures that indicate the brutality of James that rested behind his sunken blue eyes and charming guise. The famed persona could have been offered to no one else, for Pitt becomes every glitch of James, from his ticks to his truths to the long-dismissed turmoil that had pitted itself deep within his soul.Additionally, Casey Affleck, whose depiction of the young, admiring, obsessive Robert Ford is tremendous, conquers the challenge of displaying the most notable hero anti-hero in American history. Affleck's Ford character speaks words that indicate admiration and wonder, yet his body glimmers of dissolved self-assurance. As the film progresses, we see Ford's approving eyes grow dark with disdain for the story's main character, as he approaches the unsettling disposition that gives the film (and, previously, Hansen's book) its gruesome title.In addition to the stellar supporting cast (which includes Sam Rockwell, Mary-Louise Parker, Jeremy Renner, and Sam Shepard as Jesse's older brother, Frank), Dominik sets a suitable pace, while also instituting large-scale tension, most apparent in the film's two climactic scenes (the train robbery towards the film's beginning and the assassination, which comes near the film's conclusion). However, the tension in both of these scenes (and for the duration of the picture) is catapulted by Nick Cave's truly haunting score, which is the very best of the year and corresponds impeccably with the desolate scenery and grabbing visuals of Dominik's absorbing motion picture. Directed with tact and tone, 'The Assassination of Jesse James' is an absolute must-see for fans of movies and of the timeless legend of Jesse James, America's longest-standing iconic figure.
Prickly, Murky and very Compelling
posted on 15 Jul 2009Plot: As his gang and legend begin to fragment, train-robber and outlaw Jesse James (Pitt) is a haunted man. He can feel his death approaching, but can he foresee that fringe gang-member Robert Ford (Affleck) will be the man to pull the trigger? My Review: Brad Pitt's career takes an interesting turn in this idea of a modernised Western based on a legend. At the helm of a two-time director Andrew Dominik, it's fair to say that new Western has likely left perplexed studio execs somewhat long in the face. It's also fair to say that we expected Mr. Jolie at the back of a greasy gun saying some ponderous if not idiosyncratic line to a enemy facing the other end of the barrel.The source is Ron Hansen's fictional recreation of the chaotic events that brought James-gang-hopeful Robert Ford (Affleck) to shoot his iconic leader in the back as he phased out of the frame of the picture. However, what Mr Dominik has given us is a unconventional thrill seeker, (all those expecting a thrill seeker may want to go get another thrill with more premise) a spurring yet slow and pensive poem-like film that makes existing luxuriant western outings seem less buzzing.Director Andrew Dominik cultivates a not-unfamiliar revisionist aura of America's formative days, a period drama that feels very modern, with the borderline being on the precipice. It shares the unique blend of contemplative power and unmaking of myth from say Unforgiven and shares its sepia-hued authenticity and indistinct morality. This is almost the most unusual form for a conventional idea of a Western with a backdrop of a psychological landscape.Andrew Dominik matches the book's shapelessness faithfully: messy like the throes of garbled history and hear-say with an undercurrent of the actual shards and slivers which is it's composite. Loosely weaved plot that feels more tangled than vague. With its few superlative undercurrents, and beneath a rambling exterior is a true immersing theme of death and assignation so foul that it makes you think of convention planned murder-outings being the weaker copies of this.Pitt is very impressive as he is most effective stalking the fringes of sanity - seeing how he borderlines his 12 Monkeys and Fight Club twitchy-ness that made him luminous - so he is fittingly cast as Jesse James. Affleck also gets more to work with than most previous outings. Each man lives in each others shadow, James parses his infamy in newspapers and observes the edgy brutal loyalty of his gang, especially Ford (Affleck). And when Pitt loosens the hinges a fraction, he really loses it, maniacal laughs like a death has a new best friend.A lot of weather-swept horizons and desolate farmhouses in post-Civil War Kansas and especially Missouri, float across the screen with less Western orientation, more like 'here is the countryside, look at it and "see" it'. There is no real colour, more like a bloated texture of a summers afternoon, left to some gold's, bronze's and faded styles of almost 'Deadwood' type haunts and well-dress gents who crave murder.No momentum like any ordinary thriller, more like it's laced with a cruel menace; with an inescapable clash as scenes travel disturbing and unpredictable paths. On that note, no guns, no galore-ness of any kind, very suave and unpleasantly vindictive, but we do get one possibly statuesque of modern train-robbery scenes that you will ever see, brutal and very indicative of the gangs of old. Just how much myth creates monsters is a overall theme.Verdict: Edgy, dark and maniacal in all-sorts, not the Western we all have an idea of. 8.5.
Wonderful imagery
posted on 15 Jul 2009This movie was so dramatic and thoughtful. The director took the approach of draining the colour from the entire film, as well as other visual devices to convey a sense of seriousness, depression, and a stew of other slightly negative emotions. This also enhances the starkness of the characters, setting them in more extremes. As my friend stated, by the end of the movie you feel sorry for *everyone*.It was an amazing film that I recommend anyone to see, but please be aware that it is a violent and serious film that will leave you feeling somber. There are some funny moments, but mostly ironic humour.I hope that this film gets nominated for many awards!
A sublime atmosphere
posted on 13 Jul 2009I'm almost reluctant to want to review this film at all; it is both mesmerizing and languid. I'm convinced audiences will fall into either camp, though after the first hour it is nothing short of magnificent. Brad Pitt, who produces, said his preferred cut was 4.5 hours; let's hope it becomes available, though at 2.5 hours for the big screen, its half an hour too slow in its inception.Casey Affleck is exceptional as the lead character, Ford, though accolades have so far been directed more at Pitt for playing against type, which he has done brilliantly in the past in films like Twelve Monkeys, (True Romance anyone?). Performances aside, this is really a study on the pitfalls of celebrity, the folly of youth and perhaps reiterating the cry that last Born's do really want to change the world.The soundtrack by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis is exquisite, marrying with photography and tone perfectly, unlike some of the grating soundscapes they created, perhaps appropriately, for The Proposition.Kudos must go to Ron Hansen for his introspective novel, though Aussie Andrew Dominick in only his second feature as Director creates a sublime atmosphere, hanging on nuance, savoring tension though sometimes guilty of not cutting when he should. Let's hope his efforts don't go unnoticed while the media scramble around Pitt, imitating art, imitating the demise of Jesse James.
A gorgeous yet gritty post-civil war epic that lays bare the heart and soul of an American outlaw and his killer…
posted on 09 Jul 2009While lesser movies hog the limelight, Andrew Dominik's poetic, 19th century western sits understated yet assured in the shadows, seemingly content with the fact that its subtle pace and content will not appeal to all. Despite exuding a stylish sheen of continuous visual class, professionalism and beauty, in addition to remaining rich in detail and elegiac in tone, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford has a running time, pacing and plot that'll disgruntle many. However, more importantly, it boasts a divine showcase of aesthetic, acoustic and cinematic elegance that's anchored so aptly by the pin-sharp performances of leading actors Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck. The former: yet again displaying his miscellaneous ability as a now experienced performer. The latter: an absolute revelation.Adapted from the novel by Ron Hansen, the ten word title most certainly tells audiences the who and the what, but not the why, nor the how. These underlying questions are, in essence, the heart of Dominik's tale which begins with a melodiously tranquil introductory montage of the tale's forthcoming central character, of his family, of his criminal repertoire, his pen names, mind-set, severed finger and granulated eyelids. According to the omnipresent narration, the tale commences in Kansas City, Missouri shortly after Jesse's (Brad Pitt) 34th birthday. Following this harmonious preface, we're introduced to the outlaw's current crew of no-good petty criminals (including a superb Sam Rockwell) and the impending proverbial coward, Robert "Bob" Ford (Casey Affleck), an ambitious, Jesse-idolising 19 year old nobody yearning to be a somebody. Somebody like Jesse. Over time, as Jesse's caginess regarding his dysfunctional band of gunslingers creep disturbingly into sight, he and Bob develop an estranged friendship forged on reverence and commiseration that gradually decays leaving a pedestal of scepticism, jealousy, fixation and deception. Both men exude a constant air of unpredictability: their emotions bubbling vividly to the surface on numerous occasions. However, their outlooks on life and aspirations for the future couldn't be more apposed. Prone to suicidal bouts of depression, Jesse longs for a form of spiritual respite he knows can only come via one grave route. Bob, on the other hand, craves the long-overdue recognition of his peers and the public and the fame and supposed fortune that comes with it. Clouded as their visions are, though, a series of double-crosses within the band of outlaws involving; infidelity, adulteration, persecution and deceit lead to a fair share of bloodletting which inevitably paves the way for a moving climax which exemplifies the downfall of the legend and the defining of the coward.Despite having one of Hollywood's leading men at the forefront, The Assassination of Jesse James is by no means glorified by the mere presence of its male lead who, allegedly, had it justly printed in his contract that the title of the film was not to changed. In this, Dominik's second feature, we see Pitt in an irregular yet unforgettable role in which his million dollar face is paraded not as a shrewd marketing tool, but a landscape of emotions awash with pain and distress, strife and paranoia, fear and depression. Pitt's deranged, dead-behind-the-eyes look is the unadulterated core of what has to be considered as his finest performance to date. Cold, moody, unsettling: Pitt delivers a multi-layered performance of a man in whom suspicion, grief, insomnia and misery suffer a series of head-on-collisions. Resulting in memorable screen performance that's equalled, if not surpassed, by the young Casey Affleck. Quite simply, Affleck is phenomenal as the unhinged, self-indulgent assassin, Ford. His odious, erratic and sometimes snivelling portrayal of the wanna-be outlaw is as fine-tuned, heartfelt and effective as that of co-star Pitt's, if not so: more. Affleck's performance emerges as one of the film's genuine high-points; excelling far beyond the confines of the expected yet emotional climax; radiating sheer acting impeccability, class and awe throughout; provoking pity, spite, disgust, anger and ultimate sympathy from a compelled audience.Sticking relatively close to the principles aired throughout his debut urban cult-classic Chopper, Dominik is able to present another in-depth dissection of the emotionally complex mind of a murderous criminal renowned with notoriety yet an estranged sense of heroism. Don't expect to see any self-inflicted earlobe hacking or mother-in-law thrashings here, though. Despite preserving similar theses to Chopper such as; mistrust, confusion, obsession, fear of death, fear of life, fear of friend and foe, Dominik has approached The Assassination of Jesse James in a much more patient, less explicit and tantalising manner: integrating a host of prosaic, figurative dialogue that is given clarity, precision and cinematic cohesion by the consistently stunning aesthetics.With Roger Deakins on photography, the visuals couldn't really fail. Bringing a distinct element of experience to the production, Deakins is able to speak to the audience in visual terms using; wheat-fields, sunsets; land, snow and sky scape's as vividly and expressively as writers use words.Nick Cave's harmoniously soft yet menacing score further aids the subtle mood of the tale. How it failed to even be nominated for the Academy Award for best original score remains the bitterest of mysteries. Together with Deakins, though, the atmosphere created by the visual: audio components are as bolstering to Dominik's feature as the polished performances of his leading men. Least I forget Hugh Ross's pitch perfect omniscient narration- a character in its own right- which, quite simply, ties the entire motion-picture together with veritable sincerity and style.IN SHORT: Slow in places, stirring in others. Dominik's epic yarn will most certainly be met by the cold shoulders of many, but by the utmost respect of others. Laden with highly-convincing and even Oscar-worthy performances, The Assassination of Jesse James is as scenic and as a finely-tuned as any film in recent memory. Visually poetic. Lyrically distinct. Melodically immersing. But discreet it looks set to remain for many years to come.
a truly masterful creation
posted on 01 Jul 2009I will keep this short, but for the people who dislike this movie its OK because you probably have ADHD. This movie is not a fast pace shoot 'em up western. It is truly for people who love the meaning of cinema, the art of cinema. Its a gripping story that captivates you from its performances; that are Oscar worthy, to its beautiful soundtrack, to its beautiful cinematography which is also notably Oscar worthy. This is what the true meaning of film making is about. The only thing that disappointed me about the film was the lack of attention it received. If you bore easily or have the attention span of a 5 year old then this movie isn't for you. If not I strongly advise you to give this film a chance, stay open minded and try to appreciate it for what it is and that is art, not an all to often seen piece of mainstream Hollywood.
epic stories need not be painfully long
posted on 29 Jun 2009I hope that director Dominik takes this advice. The 2 hours and 40 minutes length is the principal problem of this 'Jesse James' screen story. It is not difficult to imagine a shorter version of this film and you get a much better one.The very good news are Casey Affleck. Dare I say he is a better actor than his elder and more famous brother? Yes, I dare. I could not identify for a long time Ben Affleck in the crowd. Casey is both resembling physically to Ben, but also has a personality that strikes at first sight. His acting as Robert Ford, the young, fascinated and treacherous killer of outlaw Jesse James is deep and emotional. He matches the much more experienced Brad Pitt, who is giving himself an outstanding performance as the charismatic and suspicious Jesse James at the end of his criminal career and life.It is really a pity that the director having created the good acting and beautiful cinematography of the film seems to have become so much in love with his own creation that he did not want to leave out anything. What resulted is a full two hours which are becoming repetitive, a lot of characters that look and behave too much of the same just to come down under the bullets of a Jesse who understands he cannot trust anybody any longer. Surprisingly it is the last 20 minutes which avoid the film from becoming a more complete bore with the story of what happened to the killer after the assassination. The too long elegy until that point is balanced with a condensed and expressive epilogue. In most other films this post-ending would occupy just one scene of half minute. Here it saves the dayIt is interesting to see a non-American director in charge with such an American film and story. Dominik brings the fresh view that takes out of routine a genre as the Western. If only he could have resisted the temptation of making the film long as an American screen saga.
a visual masterpiece
posted on 27 Jun 2009If "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" is to be believed, then surely hell hath no fury like an idol worshipper scorned. And if it isn't, well heck, a little yarn-spinning might not be entirely out of order in a movie that is, by its very nature, a lyrical, haunting and visually stunning elegy to the fabled Old West and the larger-than-life figures who inhabited it.The "idol," in this case, is Jesse James, the notorious outlaw who, even before his death in 1882 at the age of 34, had become a legend in his own time, famous the world over for the many highly publicized robberies and killings he committed all across the American heartland. Indeed, an entire cottage industry of highly romanticized literature (a sensationalized mixture of fact and fiction) had already sprung up around him and the other members of his gang (including his nearly-as-famous brother, Frank). One of those who not only gobbled up the mythology but absorbed it into his soul was a young, self-described "nobody" by the name of Robert Ford, who, at the age of nineteen, finally got the chance to not only meet his childhood hero in person, but to join up with him in what would turn out to be the bandit's final great train robbery. However, disillusionment can come mighty quickly when an idol is revealed to have feet of clay, and when Jesse didn't accord Robert the respect he felt he was entitled to, the one-time sycophant became the gunman's most dangerous nemesis - and the man who would eventually take his life."The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" is not a traditional shoot-'em-up action picture, but rather a long, deliberative and contemplative mood piece focused on the burdens of "celebrity" and on the need to be a "somebody" in the eyes of the public. In a beautifully understated performance, Brad Pitt portrays James as part ruthless killer and part raving paranoiac, a mentally unbalanced sadist who spends much of his time waging physical as well as psychological warfare on the men he feels have betrayed him (with good reason in some cases). Yet, Pitt allows moments of humanity and tenderness to seep through his otherwise buttoned-down, stoic demeanor. As Ford, Casey Affleck is the true revelation in this film, finding the root of this pipsqueak's incessant need for braggadocio in his low self-esteem and obsessive need for recognition from others. The irony is that Ford's version of "celebrity," when he finally achieves it, is quite different from that of Mr. James - even if their fates take eerily similar paths in the end. These two superb actors are matched in performance by Sam Rockwell, Jeremy Renner and Sam Sheperd, all of whom are excellent in their roles.Using Ron Hansen's novel as his source, writer/director Andrew Dominik has crafted a work that, aesthetically speaking, is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece, a film in which virtually every shot can stand as its own work of art. Roger Deakins' brilliantly lit, softly filtered cinematography (reminiscent of the work in the similarly themed "The Grey Fox") lends an otherworldly quality to the film, perfect for bringing out the legendary nature of the material. And Nick Cave and Warren Ellis' beautiful and haunting score goes a long ways towards achieving that end as well.From first frame to last, "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Brown" draws the audience into its beautifully lit world of history and legend - and makes us a part of that world.
This Film Was Shot In Canada Ahhh!
posted on 27 Jun 2009I was so let down by this film. It was very slow and I didn't like the script. I honestly thought 3:10 to Yuma was better. Very nicely shot and great costumes and props/sets. Shot in Calgary and Edmonton, AB, and Winnipeg, Canada. I think the camera work was beautiful. Very professionally shot. I was a little let down with the Producing of Ridley Scott and Brad Pitt. Mr. Pitt has not made a good movie since Mr. and Mrs. Smith and the Bradgelina curses his career still. Par acting by Brad Pitt, I've seen better from him in older movies like Fight Club. I got all hyped up for this shot em' up cowboy story that glamorized a fading legend. Instead, I thought this film was pretty boring and is going to get looked over by many. There has been many more westerns made that pay better tribute to the genre then Mr. Pitt's latest effort. But thanks Brad for supporting the Canadian film industry as you just love charities and helping humanity with Angelina.
Not Only A Majestic Western, But Also A Powerful Character Study!
posted on 27 Jun 2009"The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" is a brilliant character study, epically engraved at the deepest corner of the Western it disguises itself as. Instead of going by legend of how a coward like Bob Ford shot heroic Jesse James in the back, this film brilliantly ventures into riskier territory, projecting both the criminal and his assassinator as the human beings they actually were, and not once projecting them as the iconic names that the American public has branded onto them. Director Andrew Dominick shows the complete realism of this story by giving the film, itself, its own mythical disposition. The film folds out like a slow-paced novel. Little action, this is a Western in its own ballpark, keeping its characters more epic than explosions and gunfights, and using this at its advantage of opening the viewer's eyes to how simple a person's life can be strung down into a hellish nightmare. One of which wakening could only make for even more hellish tribulations.Jesse James, as played brilliantly by Brad Pitt, is never shown as that Robin Hood-like figure so commonly believed. Instead, it shows him as a husband and a father, whose violent ways are only prowling his proposed nature. Instead of showing James rob the trains to help give money to those who needed it, he is shown in darker, more wicked situations in which create questions to his own sanity, faith, and desperate convictions. In a masterfully sequences moment in the film, Jesse is shown beating a child, asking for the whereabouts of another outlaw, hoping to get the answer. But instead, he keeps his hand over the boy's mouth as to not hear this response, and only keeps pounding on the boys head. This scene could easily exploit the man into being completely villainous. But instead, it asks to forgive him and become reasonable as this man has lost his own sanity due to personal disturbances.Robert Ford, the man often noted as the coward that shot Jesse James, is shown as being no better, and no worse, than Jesse James. Played by Casey Affleck, Bob Ford is a dreamer. He is star-struck to obsession by his idol and actually begins to form a strain of lust for James. He is a confused individual, himself running from his own personal demons and looking for a way of relief. His medicine is in actually talking with Jesse, getting to know him so that he himself can only build up doses of intimacy to his icon. But the more Ford gets to know James, is the more Ford wants to instead be like James' celebrity and not his actual self. One scene that states all of Ford's and James' insecurities is when Ford watches Jesse take a bath. Lushly watching him, Ford is captured in James' essence and James finds himself uncomfortable. "Can't figure it out," Jesse says. "Do you wanna be like me, or do you wanna be me." Ford's deeper hollowness only floods with insecurities before he replies: "I'm just making fun is all." Casey Affleck, the brother of actor Ben, portrays Robert Ford in a confident light, bringing out the darkness of Ford without making him seem like a pretentious nobody. It is, though, very obvious that Ford could be branded a nobody, and he himself says it himself. But this is a term Ford himself has adapted due to the amount of unawareness that others have given him. The public gave him that tenure just as much as they would later call him "coward" for assassinating a man who all along was waiting to be put out of his own misery. Casey Affleck is a true marvel, giving one of the great performances of this decade, and fueling a stunning portrayal of culpability.The final scenes of "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" are the most powerful and heartbreaking. From the moment where Ford does kill Jesse James, to where years later he is branded "coward" and must live with this term, and with guilt, and regret, up until he himself enters the kind of emotional darkness that Jesse James himself had personally endured. With Andrew Dominick's screenplay, based on the majestic novel by Ron Hansen, Dominick himself pulls out the massive effectiveness of these two men, bruised by what legend has brought them out to be. The film is not at all trying to make this theme only. Many others exist in many of the other moments of the film, but it does become immaculately clear what Dominick and Hansen's intentions were when telling this story. And this theme makes hard for the viewer not to connect to both James and Ford in the same light. Neither James nor Ford were heroes, and neither were cowards. Of course they've had moments of cowardice. But they were, to profound knowledge, completely broken human beings, destined to find a better reason. This is the best film of the year.
well written and well acted
posted on 30 Aug 2009this is more than just a movie about the killing of Jesse James.the story is about the event leading up to the title and the aftermath.it's a well done movie with great performances from Brad Pitt as James,Sam Rockwell as Charlie Ford,and Casey Affleck as Robert Ford.the supporting performances are also very good.this is not an action film,but a deliberately paced character study.the film is well written and has some very good dialogue.it also has a voice over narration,which i thought worked well with this movie.it does tend a bit toward slowness,but only for brief moments and only occasionally,and is never boring.the story and characters are quite compelling.i found myself quite engrossed in the story and the characters.for me,The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a 9/10