A tale of fan obsession taken to a disastrous conclusion

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (Warner, e24.99, e27.99) may be a long-winded title, but it’s a fine western tale of fan obsession taken to a disastrous conclusion — that is if you happen to be Jesse James (Brad Pitt), here painted in a romantic image, more Robin Hood than outlaw.

Enter Robert Ford (Casey Affleck), a fan whose adoration soon turns into resentment at his own lack of success.