The 1939 film Jesse James is a classic Western that stands as one of the genre’s most iconic pieces. Directed by Henry King and starring a powerhouse cast including Tyrone Power, Henry Fonda, and Nancy Kelly, the movie tells the legendary tale of outlaw Jesse James and his adventures in the Old West. Here are some intriguing facts about the film:
1. A Star-Studded Cast
One of the most compelling aspects of Jesse James is its cast. Tyrone Power, known for his good looks and captivating screen presence, portrayed Jesse James with a charming yet rebellious flair. Henry Fonda, in a more subdued role, played Jesse’s brother, Frank James. Fonda’s calm and resolute demeanor provided a strong counterbalance to Power’s fiery persona. Meanwhile, Nancy Kelly, portraying Jesse’s love interest, added emotional depth to the movie, embodying a strong female character in a male-dominated Western narrative.
2. Filming Locations & Historical Accuracy
The film was shot in various locations around Missouri, where the real-life Jesse James lived and operated. This added a touch of authenticity, as the production used actual settings from Jesse’s story. However, while the scenery was authentic, the film took creative liberties with historical accuracy, dramatizing certain events for cinematic appeal. For example, Jesse James was portrayed as a Robin Hood-like figure, robbing from the rich to help the poor, though this wasn’t entirely true to life.
3. The Legendary Train Scene
One of the film’s most exciting moments is the epic train robbery scene. This scene became a template for Westerns that followed, using real trains and stunts to create thrilling, high-stakes action sequences. These stunts, which involved real danger to both actors and crew, showcased the raw and untamed nature of the Old West.
4. The Stuntman Tragedy
Sadly, Jesse James is also remembered for a tragic incident involving a stuntman. While filming a horse scene, one of the horses was ridden off a cliff into a river below. Although the stunt was meant to be performed safely, the horse was killed during the shoot. This led to a public outcry and eventually contributed to the establishment of stricter animal safety guidelines in Hollywood, leading to the phrase “No animals were harmed” in movie credits.
5. Success at the Box Office
Upon its release, Jesse James was a massive box office hit. Audiences were enthralled by its combination of action, drama, and romance. The film’s success solidified Tyrone Power and Henry Fonda as leading stars of the era, and Nancy Kelly’s performance earned her significant acclaim. The movie also helped spark a wave of similar Westerns throughout the 1940s.
Jesse James remains a testament to the enduring appeal of the Western genre, filled with memorable performances and exciting sequences. The dynamic between Power, Fonda, and Kelly, combined with its picturesque locations and high-octane action scenes, ensures its legacy continues to captivate audiences today.
