The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James

When you cast Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson as Frank & Jesse James, you've done pretty well towards making an interesting movie. Then you add June Carter Cash as their mother, and ask Willie Nelson to make a small, but important appearance. You've got a western that all western lovers should view. Based on the actual "last days" of the James brothers, I thought it needed a bit of explanation in a few areas, but it did tell the tale about as well as other, more costly films. Locations, costumes and sets were realistic. And, yes, we get to hear Johnny sing. Recommended.

Before seeing this made-for-TV movie on a cheap double DVD purchased recently, I had never heard of "The Last Day of Frank and Jesse James". To be honest, I bought the set for the first movie, "Young Guns". This is a surprisingly fine motion picture. Well written with far more attention to historic detail in firearms, clothing and even saddles than I would have expected, excellent writing and fine acting from all involved. It is quite a feat of film-making to create suspense that keeps the viewer on the edge of his seat when that viewer knows precisely what is about to happen. The women in the story, in particular June Carter Cash and the two wives are superb in what might have been mere window dressing in a lesser movie. The simple music, using the folk song, is totally appropriate. This is a fine and moving production well worth seeing more than once. PS: I will confess that Frank James, wonderfully portrayed here by Cash, is of a personal interest to me since my legal father claimed that as a child he had seen Frank James in Detroit circa 1910.

This was pure entertainment. If you want history, look at The Long Riders. But, if you want fun and excitement, this is your huckleberry. It has been years since this film rolled out, so a lot of the "extras" are now recognized as accomplished country music artists. The movie moves quickly to its conclusion, but then there is an added bonus: Bob Ford! You'll have to see it to fully appreciate it. Bravo!

This made for television movie stars some real life Highwaymen. Johnny Cash as Frank James. Kris Kristofferson as Jesse James. A guest appearance by Willie Nelson as General Shelby.

It begins with Jesse James being gunned down by the coward Robert Ford. Just at a time when the James boys were calming down a little after a life of crime.

Frank went for an easy family life and put his outlaw days behind him. Jesse James was not yet ready for pipes and slippers.

After his death, Ford earns notoriety as he recounts on stage just how he got to kill the famous outlaw. Brother Frank is out for revenge but he needs to deal with a court matter first.

The movie is a small scale drama than a western. The script is no great shakes. It is an anodyne affair. The cast of real life country and western legends gives it some interest.

Once you get past the fact that both Kristofferson and Cash were more than ten years to old to play the parts of the James Brothers and June Carter playing their mother when she was about the same age and husband Johnny you will enjoy this film.

I have seen so many films about the notorious brothers, some good, some bad but I enjoyed this one. I believe it was fairly accurate. Sure as another reviewer said neither actors are Oscar winners but they played the parts to the best of their abilities and to say Kristofferson is the worst actor in the world is a bit harsh.

It comes on TV fairly regularly so give it a chance when it does.