17. november 2007

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford


I didn't expect much going into this film. I knew it had gotten good reviews, but other than knowing Robert Ford was going to kill Jesse James at some point in the film I knew nothing. The movie build up the story and characters in a very engaging way. It strays away from suspense-building techniques and instead looks at the sad ruins of two murderous, self-absorbed people. We all know what is going to happen, but the development of Robert Ford from a little fanboy to scorned assosiate comes clear across and is wonderfully portrayed by Casey Affleck.


Both Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck give outstanding performances as Jesse James and Robert Ford. They're able to show so many sides of their characters and make the audience aware that these are real people, and it's hard to judge either character for what they do because you're able to put yourself in their shoes.
The film has an unusual pace, and strays away from the two leading men at times to tell what happens to other members of the gang, you might wonder why, but everything ties together as the story progresses, and you get a sense of who each man was. The film does move slowly at times, but it doesn't take away from the story. The film is after all two hours and fourty minutes long, but I have to admit it didn't feel that way to me.
The tone is set beautifully through gorgeous cinematography and a chilling score. There are sequences where the visuals are truly stunning, you could grab a frame from the film and hang it on your wall as a piece of art. The music so nicely compliments every moment of the film. Truly beautiful.

In conclusion this is a wonderful film. Beautifully shot, with an engaging story. A bit slow in places, but it's a movie that's well worth spending a few hours to watch.


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