Lists
Reviews
Images
Movies
TV Shows
DVDs
Music
Books
Games
Reviews of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
Dear Jesse
Posted : 9 months, 2 weeks ago on 16 March 2009 09:51
(A review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford)The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a detailed portrait of the infamous American outlaw during the final years leading up to his death at the hands of fellow bandit, Robert Ford. Weighing in with a running time of a cool two-and-a-half hours, this epic story runs almost as long as the film’s unnecessarily long title, though with the original cut rumoured to have stretched over the four hour mark, I’m not complaining.
Contrary to most Western films, the action element is subdued, and much of the time is spent focused firmly on character interactions and development. Indeed, the opening scene depicts a train robbery (the last ever committed by the James brothers) and very little action is witnessed hereafter. As a result it does feel like a slow-burner. The film introduces us to Jesse James with a narration that paints him as a Messianic figure, set to beautiful accompanying music, we are instantly sold as to just how brilliant he is. Competent, flattering, a much-adored gentleman, we’re not supposed to regard Jesse as a criminal, but rather a majestic individual who, despite being America’s most wanted man, even had the unwavering support and respect of the everyday man on the street.
This is in stark contrast to the manner in which Robert Ford is introduced. Initially given zero attention as he flits invisibly around the train-robbery gang members, he is eventually told to leave by Jesse’s brother. His speech is feeble and unnatural, he almost seems eternally on the verge of bursting into tears. He is the direct opposite to Jesse, every inch the weak minded and bodied character. He is played to perfection by Casey Affleck. The title of the film alone makes you dislike him immediately, though by contrasting him so starkly against Jesse, you somehow come to despise him more. It makes you angry that a man so seemingly incompetent could be responsible for Jesse’s downfall.
After the train heist, the James brothers go their separate ways, leaving Jesse on his own after Frank retires from crime. The gang splinters and disbands other than a core bunch consisting of the Ford Brothers amongst others. The following segment of the film slows dramatically. Jesse descends gradually into paranoia, expunging outlaws who were once his colleagues with very questionable motives. Brad Pitt’s on-screen moments pull this part of the film through. He is brilliant and unpredictable when on screen. During the beginning of the film he orchestrates a train robbery with the grace of a flamboyant ringmaster, whereas here he is slowly taken over by mistrust and rage. The film also utilises some truly stunning vistas to enhance the beauty of the story and romanticism of the iconic Western hero. The grandness of the surrounding countryside add further to the feeling that Jesse is increasingly lonely. It is perhaps this reason that he chooses to spend time with Robert Ford, a man obsessed with him and sycophantic in his ways as a consequence.
As Jesse becomes evermore paranoid, he invites Robert and his brother to stay with him, partly for protection, partly to scheme for a future robbery. By now the relationship between Robert and Jesse is extremely complex. Jesse is Robert’s all time hero, a man he has looked up to since birth, but his success grates him. He is a nobody in comparison and this breeds untold hatred towards him as a result. With Ford already in cahoots with the local law enforcers regarding the downfall of James, the tension seemingly builds by the second. The film eventually portrays a hopeless scenario in which the Ford’s are seemingly waiting to kill or be killed by Jesse. During this period Pitt’s portrayal takes a turn to the much darker side, where we see James behind closed doors as a terrifying human being. The film comes alive during this final third as the tension mounts and suffocates the characters, particularly Robert, whose speech once again suffers and becomes evermore faint and erratic.
The eventual assassination is a huge release of emotion and the film ends with a eulogy of James and the fates of the Ford brothers. For the briefest of times you almost feel empathy for Robert Ford, considering the state of an increasingly erratic and unstable Jesse James, though once you view their exploits after the murder your allegiances are rapidly reaffirmed.
The performances of Pitt and Affleck are blatantly strong points in the film. The visual beauty is also impossible to question and the musical score was haunting and effective. Where it falters drastically is the pacing. The film is a long film, but it also feels like a long film. The story could well do with being a lot more concise. The film’s narration also falters at times. Whereas it is used to excellent effect in the opening and final scenes, in places if feels too simplistic and obvious when it mimics the actions on screen like a tedious fire-safety video. All in all, it’s just a beautifully told story with extremely well portrayed characters. Though I can only imagine how tedious a four-hour version would have been.
0 comments, Reply to this entry
Not your typical Western, Genius...
Posted : 1 year, 4 months ago on 17 August 2008 05:47
(A review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford)''Can't Figure it out, you wanna be like me, or you wanna be me?''
A detailed account of the famous outlaw Jesse James and his relationship with Robert Ford.
Brad Pitt: Jesse James
Casey Affleck: Robert Ford
Assassination of Jesse James by the coward Robert Ford is another masterpiece from the wonders of 2007. No doubt in my mind the level of detail, of storytelling, of narration that weaves an intricate study of the characters Jesse James and Robert Ford.
A memorable scene for me would be the scene at the dinner table. You really see the love Robert Ford has for Jesse James in the speech, the story he says for him. Beautifully played by Brad Pitt and the wonderfully Casey Affleck.
Brad Pitt plays his role with ease masterfully in control.
Casey Affleck's slurry words and way of speaking is perfectly pulled of and his loving, envy and looking up to of Jesse is mesmerizing to behold.
I love the characters especially Jesse and Robert, how they're fleshed out, not only conflicted with each other but with their inner demons. The greatest weakness the heart within. Reality is moulded to suit the desires and fears of within them thus causing conflict and a level of friction between each other.
Cinematography perfectly executed music like a toy musical clock mystical soothing with melodies and piano playing suited to the era. The running time to me was satisfactory for the degree of detail needed.
What shines most is that the film doesn't try to glorify its main character Jesse into a hero or anti-hero whichever you choose. Nor does it attempt to denounce Robert Ford as a coward thus making the title a little bit hypocritical.
This is a real life tragedy that flows with haunting tones, to put it simply this is not a typical Western, don't be expecting wild shoot outs and all out carnage.
Do expect a tale of greatness, of vision and of precedence that surpasses every aspect in droves.
What helps also is it's based on the novel by Ron Hansen, which is a detailed analysis and biopic of two characters who are multi-faceted.
And no Sheriff Timberlake isn't related to JT :P
Joking aside this is a masterpiece. Wouldn't mind the soundtrack too?
It's not the title or result that is the fascination,
it's the journey...
0 comments, Reply to this entry
A breathtaking epic...
Posted : 1 year, 4 months ago on 15 August 2008 08:24
(A review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford)"Yeah, just ain't no peace with old Jesse around. You ought to pity my poor wife."
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is an eloquently artistic, poignant portrait and eulogy of the notorious 19th century American outlaw, Jesse James. The film bears an extraordinarily (and unnecessarily) long title, much like the picture it has been slapped on. This grandiose piece of filmmaking clocks at approximately 150 minutes. It's a grand achievement in contemporary filmmaking that merges visual artistry with historical storytelling.
Director Andrew Dominik is no foreigner to films that depict iconic thugs, as his previous directorial outing was the Australian film Chopper. Dominik adopts an expressive approach with this production, essentially mirroring the works of Terrence Malick who's recognised for films such as The New World and The Thin Red Line. Dominik (who adapted the screenplay from Ron Hansen's book) and his director of photography Roger Deakins have consciously striven to accentuate aesthetics, character relationships, atmosphere and tone over pure action. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford desires for its audience to witness and admire the mood, the panorama and the scenery, all whilst you cogitate on the vagaries of the dialogue.
If you're searching for a definitive classification of "post-production hell", then Dominik's The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford wears it with aplomb. The movie wasn't finally released until roughly 2 years after filming concluded. No studio agreed to fund the film's worldwide release as they weren't confident it was going to generate much of a box office return. Studios feared the film's running time was not going to please a mainstream audience. Dominik's original cut wore a running time of almost 4 hours. Preceding the film's eventual release, years passed by as people were hired to trim the film down to a more serviceable length. The concerns, the reasoning behind delay and the decision to only grant the film a limited release is understandable. The studio pushed for more action as only one robbery was depicted; however it was Dominik's intention to explore the philosophy behind the characters with dialogue as opposed to action.
In the long run, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a magnificently filmed picture, and it articulates a meticulous and edifying story. The film works hard in bequeathing accurate insight into both the mindset and the multi-faceted existence of the legendary outlaw. The film illustrates the duality of Jesse James' character: he was a family man who used an alias around his family, but was a psychotic bandit who slaughtered without remorse and made his living by robbing trains and banks with his loyal gang. The timidity and paranoia that surrounded Jesse James is elucidated in a protracted and prolonged manner. A mainstream Hollywood audience would yearn for action and more robberies to unfold, but the majority of this 150-minute production delves into the psychological facets of Jesse James and his killer Robert Ford. That said, the film's highest point is the initial train robbery. It's an artistic achievement boasting expressive angles, crisp complexion and a fantastic use of lighting. Perhaps more of Jesse's robberies scattered throughout the film could have guaranteed stronger viewing.
The tale commences on September 7th, 1881, just before the James boys staged their final railroad hold-up. At this time Jesse James (Pitt) was 34 years of age, and it was one year before Robert Ford would gun him down in a famous act of cowardice. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford chronicles the final year of Jesse James as we deeply examine his increasing paranoia and reluctance to trust even his closest comrades in fear they would kill him for the reward money and the glory. Robert Ford (Affleck) idolised Jesse James in his early youth, and desires to join the James gang to become a somebody. As the months pass by and Jesse grows increasingly paranoid, Robert Ford becomes resentful of the Missouri outlaw. Moreover, Ford believes his days are limited and that Jesse would soon shoot him. These facts become the motivation for Ford to pull the trigger on a man he once revered.
The critical reception for The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford was a mixed bag. Only a selected few could recognise the sheer brilliance underneath a cloak of visually striking images. The film isn't anything further than a unique visual splendour: the exquisite photography impeccably captures the breathtaking locations and sets. Several particular shots continue to haunt me due to the framing. One such instance is Jesse James appearing out of a cloud of smoke. I remember seeing this shot in the trailer back in 2006. Two years on, and it stuck in my mind when I finally watched the film. This is a testament to the wonderful filmmaking being offered.
The music is also evocative and memorable. There are various particular segments of music (composed by Nick Cave) that are repeated at different times. The music is perfect...an intriguing creation to perfectly compliment the photography.
The film's title could easily have been trimmed down to half its length. Coincidentally, the same can be said about the film itself. This only provides the definitive history of Jesse James in his final year. However the narrative grows too convoluted and the dialogue too stilted. While the visuals are striking and the acting stellar, several scenes appear unnecessary and out of place. Much of this Jesse James saga never adds to the story being told. The film could have worked had it not been so long. At the end of the day, 95% of it is talk. Certainly, there are a few remarkable conversations, the landscape is elegant and the silences are telling. But ultimately, we're left with the feeling that the filmmakers have spent a dreadfully long time telling a straightforward and proverbial tale, offering few or no groundbreaking insights. And furthermore, the final 30 minutes appear to be milking the plot as Robert Ford boasts about the assassination. Most of this should have been removed as things grow tedious and boring.
The cast deserve lauding of the highest honour for their delicate portrayals. Brad Pitt is absolutely sensational as the title's namesake. Pitt gives the character everything he can, but could have been far better had the script allowed him something more to say. The script offers nothing but excessive character banter, and the narrative should have been far more succinct.
Casey Affleck is nothing short of amazing. With fantastic performances like this, it's a wonder why his brother Ben is more well-known. Casey Affleck's character is young, naïve and displays a clear-cut traitorous side where he is completely intent on becoming his own celebrity. Affleck demonstrates intelligence in his portrayal as Ford as well as a deep emotional side that was essential for the film's success.
Sam Shepard is amazing, as is Sam Rockwell and the rest of the supporting cast. If there's one compelling reason to view this film, it's for the performances from the entire cast.
Overall, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is an essential contemporary masterpiece. The film feels like a history lesson with magnificent paintings telling the tale. Jesse James was an inimitable personality and one of the legends of American history. This movie paints a faithful story of James' undoing, and final days. It also supplies the reasoning why he was assassinated by an individual whom he considered a friend. Both Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck put forth excellent performances that denote the high water mark of this film. The film is a leisurely paced, ponderous Western that occasionally transcends its gawky determinations to create memorable cinema. Perhaps with a more concise running time or reasoning for its length, this majestic film could have been further improved.
8.1/10
0 comments, Reply to this entry
A feast to the senses
Posted : 1 year, 8 months ago on 5 May 2008 06:48
(A review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford)This film is a feast to the senses, I swear it's that well crafted I could smell it. Although Pitt gives an adequate performance the real stars here are Roger Deakins (cinematography), Nick Cave & Warren Ellis (music), and Casey Affleck as the creepy and highly annoying coward that is Robert Ford. One of my faves of 2007.
0 comments, Reply to this entry
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford review
Posted : 2 years, 1 month ago on 26 November 2007 12:12
(A review of The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford)Woah.. this film really surprised me. I expected it to be good, but this was way more than I expected. It was amazing and I really enjoyed it, I can understand some people might not like it as much as others, but that's always the case with any movie.
This film tells the story of Jesse James, an American Outlaw and his life. It doesnt cover everything, but just about everything interesting enough to be made into a movie. The title basically gives away what will happen that the end, so there's no surprise to his assassination. Robert Ford is only really just a kid when he joins Jesse James' gang, looking up to him as a hero until he realises that Jesse doesn't think highly of him just like everyone else. In the movie we experience the shooting, friends and family life of Jesse James.
Brad Pitt was excellent as always, I had no doubt that he would completely ace his role in this. Casey Affleck who I'm not really familiar with played the character with amazing emotion, he really brought something to this movie it just wouldn't have been as good without. Sam Rockwell was fantastic like the other movies I have seen with him, the part he had he played brilliantly and again, I couldn't think of a better casing choice.
It's more a drama than action in most cases, so don't expect this to be full of shooting and killing etc. It does go for a while but it couldn't have been as good without some of the scenes, and at the end you might be left still questioning what happened. This ending was satisfying in that it told you everything you would want to know.
0 comments, Reply to this entry
