Review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) by John S — 21 Sep 2012

Jesse James is a film that absolutely demands your attention. However, if you aren't able to keep up, you'll find the story hard to follow and the characterization puzzling. It's the type of film that also demands repeat viewings. All of these requirements make it a bit hard to fully appreciate the film for what it has. it's all there (and then some) but it also requires a lot from you, making it difficult to digest.

The relentlessly beautiful photography is awe-inspiring and really brings about the film's historical epic feel. But what is most stunning is the performances (both supporting and lead). Everyone is top-notch, including Brad Pitt who is spine-tingling yet simultaneously adorable. But it is Casey Affleck in a performance of the decade that steals the show. Affleck is simply a wonder to behold. He has a brilliant sense of awkward uneasiness that is just tangible. It's the way he interacts with Pitt and how the two characters converge and clash that truly makes the film entrancing.