As a Western, director Andrew Dominik doesn’t use a lot of shootouts, fainting women, or “high noon” dialogue typical to some Westerns. But “Assassination” doesn’t bear a resemblance to the Western genre at all, it takes advantage of creativity and storytelling. The real plot is celebrity fascination, that of Ford fascinated by James. The fatally fated duo is played by Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck as they escort the audience through the last few days of the infamous Jesse James’ life.
The Good:
Casey Affleck – In the beginning, Affleck depicts Robert Ford as a star struck young man who finally meets his hero. Later, Ford becomes as a man who feels guilty for his cowardice actions and becomes a mild celebrity himself. There is a pathetic aspect to Ford and how he maneuvers into James’ life. Ford is tactical about joining and sustaining a close relationship with his idol and Affleck is effortless in portraying this.
The Cinematography – This film is mesmerizing to watch. Just little factors like blurred edges of the screen with a clear center generate an old fashioned mood. It’s as if we are outsiders taking in the scenery.
A Different Look at a Legend – Thinking of the notorious Jesse James may bring up images of robberies, bandanas worn over a face, Wanted posters and the like. But this movie adds to those mental images by showing the side of him that loved his wife and children, the side that was intuitive and knew friends from enemies. It’s an intriguing “day in the life” type story.
Going Beyond – The film continues post Jesse’s murder revealing Ford’s life after the death of his hero. Ford’s patheticness doesn’t go away. Choosing not to end the film at Jesse James’ death gives the audience a look as to what happens after an infamous man’s murder in the 1880’s. There was no CSI, only the fact that Ford’s brother told James’ wife that the gun accidentally went off, thus adding to the mystery of the legend.
Cons:
Time – It’s too long! It’s difficult to dedicate so much time to watching the whole thing in one sitting.
Subtitles – The accents make the dialogue difficult to understand, so much so, that I had to put the subtitles on.
Getting Lost – Because of its length and that it’s so full of dialogue and narration and scenery, viewers may feel like they get lost within the movie.
Summary:
Rent it or get it On Demand. “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” is a terrific example of quality filmmaking. It tells the story of a haunting life as a celebrity in the 1880’s and how, even back then, people were fascinated by fame.
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