The Return of Frank James (1940)

Intro
"The Return of Frank James" is an American Western movie launched in 1940 directed by Fritz Lang. The movie, which stars Henry Fonda, Gene Tierney, and Jackie Cooper, is a follow up to the 1939 movie "Jesse James", and it primarily revolves around Frank James, Jesse's older bro, looking for revenge for his brother's murder.

Storyline
The plot of "The Return of Frank James" picks up where the preceding film, "Jesse James", ended. Frank James (Henry Fonda), living under an assumed name, discovers that his criminal bro, Jesse James, has actually been killed by Bob Ford (John Carradine) and Charlie Ford (Charles Tannen) who were members of their gang. This murder was performed in exchange for amnesty guaranteed by Governor Crittenden (Henry Hull).

Revenge and Unfolding Drama
Frank, outraged by his bro's betrayal and murder, leaves his quiet farmer life and swears revenge. He is accompanied in his mission by Clem (Jackie Cooper), a young, bright-eyed farm kid who idolizes Jesse and Frank. The duo finds the Ford brothers just to find Bob Ford shot dead in a saloon, and Charlie Ford hangs himself out of regret and embarassment. However, the authorities jail Frank for Bob Ford's murder rather.

Court Proceedings and Twists
At his trial, Frank is safeguarded by defense lawyer Major Rufus Cobb (Henry Hull), a newsman who previously interviewed Frank and is well-disposed towards him. While in jail, Frank meets Eleanor Stone (Gene Tierney), a young reporter who thinks in Frank's innocence. Eleanor's brother is the district attorney prosecuting Frank. In a surprising twist, Eleanor testifies in court that she saw Frank in Denver the day Bob Ford was shot, thus supplying him an alibi.

Conclusion
Regardless of the testimony, Frank James is found guilty but gets away from custody prior to sentencing. He then tracks down and faces George Runyan (Donald Meek), the staying murderer who actually eliminated Bob Ford in a bid to collect the bounty placed on the criminals by the railroad business. Runyan is caught and Frank returns willingly to custody. Frank's trial concludes kindly, considering the strong public belief for the James brothers, and the fact that the Ford siblings and Runyan were well-known criminals. Frank is acquitted and returns to his serene farm life.

General Reception
"The Return of Frank James" is a renowned Western movie, directed by among the excellent pioneers of cinema, Fritz Lang. The film maintains a good balance of drama, action, suspense, and nuanced character development. Henry Fonda's portrayal of Frank James is engaging, and he brings a strong existence of grounded, quiet threat to his role.
Runyan delivers an exceptional efficiency with distinct characteristics and style, while Cooper supplies light relief with his naive interest and commitment. Rounded out by Tierney's efficiency, the film provides an exciting plot and robust character arcs that contributed to its standing as a classic of the Western category.

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