This is one of those ‘serious’ films that Brad Pitt makes every now and then to remind us that he’s more than just a pretty face. He certainly does a good job depicting the outlaw Jesse James as a psychopath who switches from loving family man to cold-blooded killer at the drop of a hat. However, the real stars of the show are cameraman Roger Deakins and supporting actor Casey Affleck, both of whom received Oscar nominations for their work here.
Affleck gives a remarkably convincing performance as Bob Ford, the hero-worshipping sidekick who comes to resent and fear James, and eventually turns traitor – only to find himself haunted by the legend of Jesse James long after the gunman’s death. Deakins frames every shot to perfection – James appearing like an apparition from the mist as he holds up a train, or silhouetted by golden sunlight on the open prairies. The sheer beauty of the photography almost makes up for the languid pace of the film, and at almost two and a half hours long there are moments when you can’t help thinking – “oh, just shoot him will ya…”
Haven't been able to get my hands on the high-def version yet, but it's definitely a film that will benefit from the HD treatment - lots of beautiful landscapes and lingering close ups of Brad Pitt looking moody....
Yes i have to agree with you there. It was a very interesting and well thought out film but i do think it is a film your either going to like or your going to hate.
Personally i enjoyed it, i liked the bit in the bar while the man was singing about Jesse while ford was there.