A bold retelling of the Jesse James legend, where real-life brothers play outlaw brothers in one of the most authentic and stylish Westerns of its time.
๐ Quick Overview
Directed by Walter Hill, The Long Riders (1980) is a revisionist Western that tells the story of the infamous James-Younger gangโoutlaws who became folk legends in post-Civil War America. What sets the film apart is its casting: real-life sets of acting brothers (the Keaches, Carradines, Quaids, and Guests) portray the brotherly outlaw gangs, adding a unique layer of authenticity and chemistry to the film.
The Long Riders (8/11) Movie CLIP – Shootout in Northfield (1980) HD
๐ฌ Plot Summary
1. Outlaws, but bound by blood
The film follows Jesse James and his brother Frank, along with their cousins the Youngers and the Millers, as they rob banks, fight Pinkerton agents, and attempt to maintain loyalty in a world that is increasingly closing in on them. The story spans years of their criminal career, from daring heists to the fateful Northfield, Minnesota raid that sealed their fate.
The Long Riders (7/11) Movie CLIP – Knife Fight (1980) HD
2. A fresh take on the Western genre
Unlike many traditional Westerns, The Long Riders focuses on character dynamics, emotional tension, and the code of brotherhood that defines the gang. Walter Hillโs direction is sharp and deliberate, mixing gritty realism with stylish slow-motion action sequences that pay homage to Sam Peckinpahโs The Wild Bunch.
3. Performances that resonate
David Carradine as Cole Younger, James Keach as Jesse James, and Stacy Keach as Frank James lead a powerful ensemble cast. The real-life sibling relationships translate beautifully on screen, offering a believable bond that gives the film emotional weight.
๐ฏ Why You Should Watch It
-
For fans of Westerns looking for a film that balances action with character depth.
-
If you’re interested in the Jesse James legend told with historical nuance and dramatic flair.
-
To enjoy a unique cinematic experiment: real brothers playing outlaw brothers.
๐ฅ Highlights
-
The stylized Northfield raid sequenceโraw, intense, and unforgettable.
-
Ry Cooderโs haunting, bluesy score that brings texture and tone to the Old West.
-
Subtle moments of reflection on loyalty, betrayal, and the fading of an era.
The Long Riders (2/11) Movie CLIP – Good Ol’ Rebel (1980) HD
๐ Where to Watch
The Long Riders is available for streaming or digital rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube Movies. It may also be found on Blu-ray or in Western film collections.
๐ค Final Thoughts
The Long Riders isn’t just another cowboy shoot-’em-upโit’s a thoughtful, well-crafted Western that delves into the emotional complexities of loyalty and legend. With its standout casting choice and a fresh, grounded take on an oft-told tale, it stands as a hidden gem in the Western canon.