The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
An overly long film befitting of its title.
Presentation:
A film where the cinematographer is more recognized than the director. You likely watched this film because of the DP, but if that’s the case it may be a let down. Roger Deakins does make a beautifully shot piece that is more naturally lit compared to his modern bold lighting style. You have a very unique implementation of the Deakinzer, a custom built tilt-shift lens as well as a famously dark silhouetted train robbery. The plot has an exciting arc of outlaws and bandits in Missouri that is not particularly paced well. There are points of high excitement and lulls of excessively slow drama. I would say the film is an hour longer than it needed to be. The exposition toward the end felt very unnecessary making it feel like Robert Ford’s story rather than Jesse James. Regardless, it is a good film, but lacks a bit of polish. Has elements and structure resembling No Country For Old Men, though not nearly as masterfully presented.
Conclusion:
The problem with this film is Jesse James’ character is not developed sufficiently enough to make us care for him. He is portrayed as heroic, neurotic, paranoid, yet not admirable. It’s emotionally inconsistent, which is pretty crucial for a film that relies on the dramatic elements. Still, a good film, but the 2 hours and 40 minutes run-time should have just been 2 hours.
Recommendations
A love letter to westerns, save none for the audience.