An action western surrounding the private life and public exploits of America's most notorious outlaw, Jesse James. As the charismatic and unpredictable outlaw plans his next great robbery, he wages war on his enemies, who are trying to collect the reward money--and the glory--that is riding on his capture. However, the greatest threat to Jesse's life may ultimately come from those he trusts the most.
by bubzia
on 22/03/2008 1 of 2 people found this review helpful
What I loved most: The depiction of the developing, rural American South
What I really hated: Length
The film is too long by about 45 minutes. The first half hour and last half hour lack focus, especially in the attending to or laying down of, the parameters for the mythic inferences implied by the title. The reverence accorded the "outlaw" James , are put forth through an invasive, problematical narration (i.e. there is altogether too much of it) and never appears warranted. But the evocation of that period in American history, especially its depiction of the South, is meticulous and mesmerizing. Brad Pitt is very good as James, mercurial and flinty and charming when necessary. Affleck is almost as good. See it for their performances and if you're into the thing: for the fascinating (almost voyeuristicly so) glimpses of the life-style assemblages and interiors of average, pioneering homesteads and stomping grounds that were glossed with in Gone With the Wind.
