Review Archives

1 | 2 | 3

Today's Date is:

The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James

For a television production, "The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James" isn't half bad. The production design and budgets look better than most of the schlock that you see in today's TV movies, and the round-up of familiar faces certainly helps to lasso our interest on more than one occasion. Rather than go for the expected by exploring the thievery and life of crime as lived by the James clan, the filmmakers have decided to take a look at the last few years of their lives, which showcase Frank (Johnny Cash) as a more learned, family-oriented man and Jesse (Kris Kristofferson) as a man driven by money and women. The acting is what keeps us involved here, as well as some well-plotted story structure and a better-than-usual-looking production.

Not a solid transfer, to say the least. The original aspect ratio of 1.33:1 is generally pleasing in that it's not too overly-hampered by source print scratches or markings, but that's about all I can say in its favor. Colors are subdued immensely, while contrast is mediocre and flat. Edges are soft throughout, and there are signs of artifacts present in many places. ***

The sound is equally flawed, mixed in Dolby 2.0 Surround, but retaining an overall monaural feel. Dialogue is fairly natural, while sound effects and music sound congested and in need of some clean-up.