Jesse James (1939) | Directed by Henry King

"Jesse James" is a 1939 American Western film directed by Henry King. The film stars Tyrone Power as Jesse James and Henry Fonda as his brother Frank James. It is a dramatized account of the life of the infamous outlaw Jesse James, focusing on his transition from a law-abiding citizen to a notorious criminal.

The film tells the story of Jesse James (Tyrone Power), a young farmer who turns to a life of crime after railroad agents kill his mother and forcefully take away his family's land. Alongside his brother Frank (Henry Fonda), Jesse embarks on a series of train and bank robberies that make him a legendary figure in the American West. The narrative explores Jesse's relationships, his motivations, and the pressures that lead him deeper into a criminal lifestyle. The film climaxes with Jesse's betrayal and assassination by a member of his own gang, Robert Ford.

"Jesse James" is regarded as one of the classic Westerns of its time, known for its compelling storytelling and strong performances. Tyrone Power and Henry Fonda deliver memorable portrayals of the James brothers, capturing the complexities of their characters. The film is notable for its high production values, including stunning Technicolor cinematography, which was relatively new at the time. It also features impressive action sequences that helped set a standard for future Westerns.

Critics praised "Jesse James" for its engaging narrative and strong performances. Tyrone Power's charismatic portrayal of Jesse James was particularly lauded, as was Henry Fonda's nuanced performance as Frank James. The film's direction by Henry King and its production design received positive reviews for bringing the story to life in a vivid and compelling manner. However, some critics noted the film's historical inaccuracies, as it took significant liberties with the true story of Jesse James. Despite this, the film was a commercial success and remains a beloved classic in the Western genre.

Cast:
- Tyrone Power as Jesse James
- Henry Fonda as Frank James
- Nancy Kelly as Zerelda "Zee" Cobb
- Randolph Scott as Will Wright
- Henry Hull as Major Rufus Cobb
- John Carradine as Bob Ford
- Brian Donlevy as Barshee

"Jesse James" remains a significant film in the Western genre, remembered for its dramatic interpretation of the outlaw's life, its strong performances, and its influence on subsequent Westerns. Its portrayal of the James brothers, despite historical liberties, continues to captivate audiences.