I'm been looking forward to it for a couple of years. I want to enjoy the film on its own terms so I avoid reading the reviews, although I can't help hearing the scuttlebut. It can't be all that bad, and I think Brad Pitt is an excellent choice for Jesse James.
You seem to be a fan of the genre, but very critical on the small details. I am curious to know some Westerns that you enjoyed, and met your criteria for costume, story, etc... I am also a great fan of Westerns
I rated this a 3/4 because I was entertainment despite my increasing incredulity during the film, culminating in that bizarre finale. The end just didn't work for me.
i agree with H - my sense of unbelief grew to a roaring crescendo when wade guns down his posse. i just stared blankly at the screen, thinking "huh?"...