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I Shot Jesse James

Name: I Shot Jesse James
Genre: Western, Drama
Released: 1949-02-26
Cast: Preston Foster, Barbara Britton, John Ireland, Reed Hadley, J. Edward Bromberg

1949 | 81 min | Western, Drama

Sunday Safe Betearly rating

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

It earned strong reviews (78% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had almost no lasting buzz and soft box office. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it: Made for anyone who loves a strong drama. If you loved Rio Bravo or Bad Day at Black Rock, start here.
The mood: Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace: Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 21 min.
What might put you off: Made in 1949: an older pace and style.

Bob Ford murders his best friend Jesse James in order to obtain a pardon that will free him to marry his girlfriend Cynthy. The guilt-stricken Ford soon finds himself greeted with derision and open mockery throughout town. He travels to Colorado to try his hand at prospecting in hopes that marriage with Cynthy is still in the cards.

How it earned its rating

CriticsStrong
78% on Rotten Tomatoes
AudiencesNot counted
Not measured yet: not enough ratings
AwardsNot counted
No major awards or nominations
Reach & staying powerBelow par
Streaming release that reached a small audience so far; still draws a steady audience long after release
Buzz & cultural impactWeak
About 8K people sought it out in the past year

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Cast & crew

Directed by Samuel Fuller

Preston FosterJohn Kelley
Barbara BrittonCynthy Waters
John IrelandBob Ford
Reed HadleyJesse James
J. Edward BrombergHarry Kane
Victor KilianSoapy
Tom TylerFrank James
Tommy NoonanCharles Ford
Eddie DunnJoe, Silver King Bartender
Margia DeanSaloon Singer