An Epic of American History

Rating: 8/10 (8 August 2013)

Robert Ford (Casey Affleck), who has idolized Jesse James (Brad Pitt) since childhood, tries hard to join the reforming gang of the Missouri outlaw, but gradually becomes resentful of the bandit leader.
This film is a masterpiece of cinematographer Roger Deakins. Sure, Brad Pitt is hailed as a great actor (and he personally loves his work in it). And you have to credit the director, who made one of the most amazing cuts ever (around four hours). But this is Deakins.
Getting the right look for a period film is a challenge. Part of it is the costumes and part of it is the language, but I think much of the job falls on the cinematographer to get the right colors, lighting and angles. And this was a success.