There was some concern earlier in the week about the lack of word on the film The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford. I can't remember who was saying it, but there was concern that the film had been in editing and post production for about a year now and still nothing had come out.

Well on Joe Carnahan's blog he's announced that he's seen it already, and he thinks it's a masterpiece. Here's what the man had to say:

It's so close to being a full-fledged masterpiece, it literally had me sitting there, saying things like 'Where the hell has Casey Affleck been?' He's a LOCK for some sort of major acting nod. Be it Globe, Oscar, something. Nobody comes out of this movie without viewing that guy in whole other light. Mindblowing. I'm not bullshi*ting you guys. He's that good. And Brad Pitt has never been better in a film. He too, should be lauded for what he accomplishes with that role. The guy projects a menace I've never seen and goes very, VERY deep.

There are moments of still and utter silence between characters as tense and awkward
and terrifying as anything you've ever seen. Andrew's ability to just allow a scene to develop gradually and let the audience watch and observe without the need for rampant schisms of rocket propelled editorial breaks is the mark of a true master. If you saw and loved 'Chopper' then I can't imagine you not falling head over heels for this flick.

We throw words around like 'brilliant' and attach greatness to things that in the end don't really deserve that level of praise...This one DOES.

Wow. He's not mincing his words here, he's really taken by the film. He does say that the director's cut of the film is nearly three hours long, but that's the cut to see and he hopes WB agrees and releases it.

It's been quite for a long time on this film, and really there's not been anything to suggest this level of quality and power, but I'm taking Carnahan's word for it. I'll keep you updated on what cut we're likely to expect, and when!