It is no less realistic in its own way than The Wild Bunch, which was as highly stylized and artificial as a ballet. The filmmakers simply wanted to create an American Robin Hood, which they did very successfully. Power is not weak in
the title role at all, but his role as written lacks the complexity some
commentators are insisting upon. Fonda is excellent playing the role that he played over and over the next decade or so. The family scenes are to me very touching. What nobody mentioned is the wonderful locale--actually shot in the Ozarks rather than Simi Valley or the Fox ranch. Having been raised in
Independence, Mo and growing up on the James boys legends, this is a major
plus over other versions, and I think the movie is a triumph. Those who don't find fault with it because it isn't made according to today's standards of
film-making style should enjoy it thoroughly. That said, my own favorite James movie is The Long Riders, especially thanks to the incomparable Carradines.
Following closely is The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid, an even loonier
distortion of history, but eminently satisfying!
