The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a 2007 American epic Western film directed by Andrew Dominik. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Ron Hansen and stars Brad Pitt as Jesse James, Casey Affleck as Robert Ford, and Sam Shepard as Frank James.
The movie follows the final days of Jesse James' life as he evades the law and builds a new outlaw gang. Robert Ford, a young and eager member of Jesse's gang, becomes increasingly fixated on the outlaw's celebrity and believes he deserves more recognition for his contributions to the group. Feeling left out and overlooked, Robert conspires with his brother Charley (played by Sam Rockwell) to betray Jesse and turn him over to the authorities.
As Jesse's paranoia deepens, he becomes increasingly suspicious of Robert's motives and eventually realizes the extent of his betrayal. In a tense and dramatic showdown, Robert kills Jesse in cold blood and is then forced to face the consequences of his actions, living out his life in infamy as the "coward" who killed one of the most notorious outlaws in American history.
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford was a critical success when it was released, praised for its stunning cinematography, complex character development, and standout performances by Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck. It was also noted for its unconventional pacing and exploration of the darker aspects of the Western genre, marking a significant departure from traditional cowboy tales.