Jesse James played American Legend. Countless books and stories have been written about America’s most famous outlaw. A dangerous criminal in the eyes of his victims, a hero driven by a deep cause according to the press, Jesse James was the subject of a mixed reputation with an elusive reality. He is the last modern adventurer.
Robert Ford, an idealistic and ambitious young man who was one of Jesse’s most ardent admirers, had long dreamed of sharing the adventures of his idol. Little did he know that he would go down in history as the man who killed Jesse James…
In 2000, New Zealand filmmaker Andrew Dominik removed the pin from a grenade that was thrown at an audience shocked by the violence of his first film, Chopper. Directed by the incredible Eric Bana, the film evokes the bloody authentic story of one of Australia’s greatest serial killers, Mark Redd, nicknamed “Chopper” for his penchant for mutilation, including himself.
A rare filmmaker, Dominik returned to cinema after only seven years with a dazzling work: The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford. Co-produced by Brad Pitt, who plays the legendary figure of the American West opposite Casey Affleck. The enormous Roger Deakins.
An aesthetic approach as sublime as it is inspiring: Dominique’s film figures prominently among Rockstar studio’s glorious influences in its extraordinary video game western, Red Dead Redemption II.
To say that this movie was overlooked in theaters in 2007 is an understatement: it grossed just under $3.9 million domestically and $11 million internationally. Figures that pale in comparison to the film’s $30 million budget. In France, it didn’t even attract 300,000 spectators, despite the promise of its headliner.
While the film has thankfully benefited from largely favorable word of mouth since its release, there is still a lot of work to be done to evangelize people around this remarkable and hypnotic film. To view or re-watch on the Max platform.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
