Review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) by Kevin H — 06 Aug 2012

An intriguing story of the outlaw Jesse James in his finals days as the infamous Kansas City bandit, in which Brad Pitt gives amazing performances. The film centers on James' odd relationship with maybe his biggest fan, Robert Ford, played also wonderfully by Casey Affleck.

People complain about the films length but I feel as if it is necessary and only adds to the tension that slowly builds in to the all but certain climax indicated in the title. To see Robert Ford's character completely transform from a huge fan of James' to the one who ends his hero's life is a site in itself.

Then to see how upset and disappointed people were when they heard of James' death and how Ford goes on to regret it also is what makes the film great even after the high point. Looking back the cast is full of great stars outside of Pitt and Affleck including Jeremy Renner, Mary-Lousie Parker, Sam Rockwell, Zooey Deschanel, and Paul Schneider (who, himself, gives a great performance).

This is one of my favorites and has been every before I saw it, the trailer was caught my eye and drew me to this amazing film!