Watch The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid

The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid is a Western film that tells the story of the 1876 attempted bank robbery in Northfield, Minnesota by Jesse James and his gang of outlaws. The movie chronicles the events leading up to the robbery, as well as the aftermath when the townspeople rally together to capture the robbers. Cliff Robertson stars as Cole Younger, the charismatic leader of the gang, while Robert Duvall plays Jesse James, the notorious outlaw whose notoriety precedes him. Luke Askew plays the role of one of the gang members, Jim Younger, who is conflicted about the robbery and its potential consequences.

The film is famous for its realistic and gritty portrayal of the Old West, showing the harsh realities of life in a time where gunfights and robberies were a daily occurrence. The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid also showcases the power of community, as the townspeople of Northfield put aside their differences and join forces to bring justice to the outlaws who threaten their way of life.

The movie starts by showing the gang of outlaws planning the bank robbery, with Jesse James as their leader. The planning is meticulous, and the gang believes that they can pull off the heist with ease. However, as they approach the bank, they encounter resistance from the townspeople who are armed and ready to protect their assets. Chaos ensues, with gunfire, horses, and men falling in a brutal display of violence.

As the robbers flee the scene, the townspeople band together to pursue them, beginning a chase that lasts for days. The robbers are eventually caught, and the aftermath is even more violent than the robbery itself. The townspeople are enraged, and the outlaws are treated with cruelty and brutality.

Through its portrayal of the Old West, The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid depicts a time that was wild, dangerous, and unpredictable. The characters are multifaceted, with both good and bad qualities. There are moments of humor and moments of sadness. The movie accurately reflects the chaos of the time, and the desperation that many people felt as they tried to eke out a living in a violent and unforgiving land.

Cliff Robertson is outstanding as Cole Younger, presenting a complex character who is fiercely loyal to his gang and their way of life. He is a man who has lived a hard life and has made many mistakes, but who still has a sense of honor and decency. As Jesse James, Robert Duvall is charismatic and commanding, portraying a man who is both feared and respected by those around him.

The movie is not without its flaws, however. Some of the characters are underdeveloped, and the pacing of the movie is uneven at times. There are moments when the action drags, and it can be difficult to keep track of who is who in the crowded scenes.

Despite these flaws, The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid is a classic Western that is well worth watching. It is a movie that captures the spirit of the Old West, with its rough and tumble characters and its wild and unpredictable landscapes. The film is a testament to the power of community, and to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.