The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

Two of the best performances of the year, bright and persuasive direction from a relatively unknown filmmaker, and one of the best music scores of recent memory, all collide in this must-see film.

I will say, first and foremost, that this film is not for everybody. It runs nearly three hours, and it is a slow and meditative film. It takes patience and energy to view this film, and it's not something for a casual viewing. It was completed in 2005 and not released until now, so that should tell you just how unsure of this movie the studio was. Stylistically, the film is equal parts Terrence Malick and Ingmar Bergman, and its main priority is slowly building character and plot through narration and nuance. Truthfully, this thing could be a half hour shorter, and there were times I grew weary of the slow pacing, but by the end, I was eternally grateful for every second of screen time beforehand, as it helps build into a breathtaking, emotional finale.

This is director Andrew Dominik's second film, and he is truly one to watch. His only previous film was a little Australian picture from 2000 entitled Chopper. I have no idea how he was able to get the job of writing and directing this film, but I'm glad he did. His directing is simple and unobtrusive, and his camerawork is fluid and precise. Reminds me a lot of the work of Paul Thomas Anderson. He doesn't quite have the gift for writing that PTA does (scenes drag on too long, etc.), but his deft handling of the material more than makes up for it.

Both of the two leads in this film - Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck - are exceptional. Pitt is menacing and frightening but also likable and sympathetic, something that is required for his character. But the real shining star here is Casey Affleck. We had two films this year - Gone Baby Gone and now this - in which he was absolutely amazing. He's subtle, believable, and altogether brilliant. He's no longer just the "other Affleck" from Good Will Hunting... he's a damn good actor. It's a pretty tight Supporting Actor race at the Oscars this year, so I doubt he'll get a nomination, but he won Best Supporting Actor from the National Board of Review, and it's richly deserved.

The score is by Nick Cave (yes, that Nick Cave) and Warren Ellis, and it's haunting, evocative, and just right. The cinematography is beautiful, as the film was shot by Roger Deakins, the Coen Brothers' frequent DP. But the real gem here is the story. As the title tells you, it's the true story of the assassination of Jesse James by Robert Ford. That detail is given to you right in the title, right up front, and it's obvious that's what the film is about. But the film is really about the desire for fame and infamy, and the resulting consequences. That's all I'll say, but that's where the ending of the film takes you, and it's beautiful, touching, and perfect.

One of the best films of the year. Don't go into this expecting action, or even a western. If you're a fan of the Terrence Malick style of filmmaking, you'll be right at home.