One of the best of 2007

Rating: 8/10 (18 December 2007)

One of the very best films of 2007 is THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD starring Brad Pitt as the infamous Jesse James and Casey Affleck as his murderer, Robert Ford.
In the mid 1800's, the James brothers were the key figures of a gang centralized in Missouri most notably famous for robbing trains all throughout the Midwest. They were in many young men and women's eyes, saviors and modern day legends that broke free from the strain and boredom of everyday life, stealing from the rich, living spontaneously, questioning and denying the government. It was a life that many tried, but only a handful mastered. Arguably the most culturally popular man at the time, for his handsome and eccentric looks, his even yet dangerous temper, and his wily and daredevil lifestyle, Jesse James was envied far and wide; especially by Robert Ford, a young man who once only admired James from comic strips, preaching his law and emulating his gait and dress, but soon, through the connection of his brother Charley Ford, became one of his most trusted side kicks.
The rest is history.
JESSE JAMES is a beautiful film to look at with great cinematography of wide snow swept landscapes by Roger Deakins and authentic costume design, as well as an interesting and appropriate score by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis. But the acting really holds this film above the clouds with Pitt and Affleck both giving performances of their careers, Sam Rockwell as Charley Ford is also great in support. Pitt was born to play Jesse James as was Affleck to play Bob Ford.
A great study of what these men may have been like, and how fate linked them forever.