The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James 1986

Overview

The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James is a 1986 American biographical Western television film directed by William A. Graham. The production features a cast composed of country music performers, including Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, June Carter Cash, David Alan Coe, Willie Nelson, Ed Bruce, and Lecile Harris, as well as actors such as Gail Youngs and Marcia Cross. The narrative examines the later years of the famous outlaws Frank and Jesse James, beginning in 1877 as the brothers attempt to transition away from fifteen years of criminal activity. The film contrasts the personalities of the two men, depicting Frank as a family-oriented individual who enjoys reading, while portraying Jesse as a womanizer motivated by money. The story follows the brothers through the conclusion of their lives, covering Jesse James's death at the hands of Bob Ford and Frank James's death in 1892. The film explores the various fortunes and misfortunes experienced by the bank robbers throughout this period of their lives.