The film version of Ron Hansen's historical novel about Jesse James and Robert Ford starts off sluggishly, but becomes more compelling and intriguing as it progresses. The acting by everyone is really good, but Casey Affleck is excellent as Robert "Bob" Ford. Roger Deakins cinematography is excellent. It has a haunting beautiful quality to it that reminds me of Terrence Malick's films such as DAYS OF HEAVEN.
One minor flaw is the women in the story, such as Jesse James' wife played by the great Mary Louise Parker. Get short shrift in this film. I would have liked to have learned more about them. Yet, it is a story about men.
I am a fan of writer Ron Hansen. I've read the novel some years ago. From what I recall from the novel this film version does justice to it.
One minor flaw is the women in the story, such as Jesse James' wife played by the great Mary Louise Parker. Get short shrift in this film. I would have liked to have learned more about them. Yet, it is a story about men.
I am a fan of writer Ron Hansen. I've read the novel some years ago. From what I recall from the novel this film version does justice to it.