Poster for Brad Pitt's 'Killing Them Softly'

With James Gandolfini, Richard Jenkins, Sam Rockwell, Ray Liotta, and Sam Shepard. Directed by Andrew Dominik (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, Chopper).

Based on the novel by George Higgins. Originally titled 'Cogan's Trade' which made me wince. When I first heard that title I figured I would never get around to seeing this. 'Killing Them Softly' is so much better.

Very confident poster.

The (new) title and this poster alone practically make this must-see no matter what it's about or who's in it. That is, you could make a movie with just about anybody and just about any plot and, as long as you called it 'Killing Them Softly' and used this poster, I'd want to see it.

Yes. Thank you. I will.

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Must See On DVD

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford - Trailer

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

Brad Pitt may cut a menacing silhouette but it's Casey Affleck's performance which arrests your attention. Playing Bob Ford, a youngest brother struggling with self-esteem and identity issues, Affleck's eyes are so locked on their subject you're relieved he is not looking at you, his smile is charming and predatory in equal measure, and his manner...well, that's just otherworldly.

This movie's box office prospects aren't overwhelming, but all the talk will be about Affleck, and he should be a strong contender for Best Supporting. This one is unusual for a western, not so much for the psychological complexity of its characters, but for the depth and directness, almost pureness, of their portrayal.

Between what will probably be limited but very high-profile awards buzz and the nature of the story and performances, this picture (I don't want to type that title again) should do very good DVD business.