The Return Of Frank James [HD]

Lang's First "Western Noir"
In 1940, Darryl Zanuck gave Fritz Lang the opportunity to shoot his first Western - a sequel to director Henry King's "Jesse James" (1939). When asked why he allowed Lang to make a Western, the Fox producer responded: "Because he'll see things we don't." Lang's attention to detail and atmosphere dominates this unusual tale of revenge. "The Return of Frank James" also marks a cinematic advance for the German director in his vivid use of Technicolor and location photography. An impressive highlight is the chase through the High Sierras - a spectacular action sequence that reveals Lang's expressionist design in his use of architectural rock formations. "The Return of Frank James" has a look and feel unlike any Western. In some respects, it can be considered the first "Western noir." Henry Fonda delivers a memorable performance in the title role, with good support from Henry Hull, John Carradine and Jackie Cooper.

A great sequel to Jesse James
If you have ever seen the Tyrone Power movie of Jesse James, this is a must. If you have not seen it, this is still a great movie. The film picks up where the first ended and runs from there. Henry Fonda is simply great as the slow talking but extremely wily Frank James. much of the cast carries over into this sequel with is seamless in production. It was very well written and beautifully filmed. This is a good one to watch. Better yet, get both and watch them together. It will be a hoot.

A Classic Western from a Classic Director and Classic Actor
This movie is much better than what the other reviewers would have you believe. While it is a sequel, it stands on its own as sort of a revenge flick with Frank (Henry Fonda) terrorizing and delivering retribution to John Carradine's Robert Ford, the man who shot Jesse James. It is also the screen debut of the beautiful Gene Tierney. Compared to the special effects laden trash spewn out by Hollywood today, this has excellent characterization, excellent plot and excellent acting. It is definitely worth the price of admission. Fritz Lang did a great job of depicting his vision of the Old West and while it may not be the greatest Lang film such as his 1931 classic, M, it is still a classic nonetheless.

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