It appears that "Frank & Jesse" was intended for a theatrical release, but I have uncovered no evidence that it actually played in theaters. Seeing the movie, I think I know why it went straight to video. It's not a BAD movie, but it is lacking in some key areas.
First of all, I feel I should express my feeling about the movie's historical accuracy. I feel I should say that not being an expert about the James gang, whether the movie was accurate or not did not concern me that much. When a movie based on a true story is made, they often take creative license. I judge a movie on how well it tells its story, accurate or not.
So how is "Frank & Jesse" executed? Well, there are some problems. First of all, there is the budget. While the movie never looks seriously cheap, the budget was obviously not lavish. Often the movie has a made-for-TV feel to it. Also, possibly due to a limited budget, the movie often feels rushed, not giving us enough scenes like proper introductions to characters (like the Younger gang), as well as there being TWO montages that compress the many deeds of the gang in a few seconds.
On the other hand, there are some good things about the movie. The acting is surprisingly good by everyone - even Rob Lowe gives a good performance. There is a good musical score by Mark McKenzie. The movie is shot on some good atypical locations that you usually don't see in a western. And while the movie may have some faults, I can't say that I was bored at any point.
This isn't a movie that will convert non-western fans into lovers of the genre. But those who love westerns will probably forgive the movie's shortcomings and find it decent entertainment.
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