Review of Jesse James (1939) by Daniel K — 31 Aug 2009

I enjoyed Andrew Dominik?s portrayal of Jesses James in ?The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford? so much, I DVR?d the first Jesse James film (1939) when I stumbled upon it some time ago. I knew nothing of this film except the title and the 4-stars per the guide.

This Jesse James is depicted so differently than Dominik?s version, that if not for the title, I wouldn?t know they to be the same character. To say that James is portrayed in a positive tone here, would be like calling the sun important. James is represented nothing short of a saint and the flattering characterization strips the film of any excitement, suspense, or character development (much less historical accuracy).

Add that key ingredient to an already ?aw shucks? story with ?gee willikers? dialogue and this film is a complete waste of time.