Jane Got A Gun

Natalie Portman in “Jane Got A Gun”; photo courtesy of the Weinstein Company

“Jane Got A Gun” (Weinstein Company)

So why aren’t people packing the theaters to see “Jane Got A Gun”? Do they think it is going to be an updated version of “Annie Get Your Gun”, or do they think it is a pro-NRA documentary? Let me tell you clearly. This is an old school western starring Natalie Portman, and how long has it been since you saw Portman in a good role? Answer – 2010 in “Black Swan”.

This movie is raw, gritty and for fans of westerns, a godsend. In it Portman plays Jane Hammond, a frontier woman whose husband Bill (Noah Emmerich) arrives home one day full of bullets. He is alive, but barely, and he manages to whisper that the Bishop gang is coming. That one scene delivers all the questions the movie asks. These include: (1) who is the Bishop gang? (2) why do they want to kill Hammond and his wife? how will Jane fight them off?

If you aren’t intrigued by these questions then you are immune to good acting and a well written script. Portman pours herself into the role of Jane and she is supported royally by Joel Edgerton who plays Dan, the man she asks for help. Ewan McGregor is also on hand as John Bishop, the leader of the Bishop gang.

Jane’s story is revealed in flashbacks and each scene from the past has a major impact on the plight of the present. Jane has lived a relatively short life but it has been a hard one. She has learned that the only person she can really rely on is herself, and if that requires getting a gun then that is something she will do with ease.

Portman is just naturally an interesting actress. The camera loves her and her talent is always on easy display. This role requires more of her physically than emotionally but she meets every challenge presented to her and keeps the audience on Jane’s side from beginning to end. She and Edgerton have good chemistry together which also adds to the enjoyment of the film.

With everything about the movie reflecting the hard life of the frontier it is a little disconcerting to see Portman’s immaculately manicured fingernails. It is inconceivable this hard working woman could have kept them so pristine. But other than that she looks as weathered as Jane should be – oh yes, except for the perfect teeth. Still these are petty quibbles in a movie that delivers suspense, romance and violence.

The movie is rated R for violence and profanity.

“Jane Got A Gun” opened in theaters with little fanfare, for reasons that escape me. Many people are unaware it even exists. So check your local theater listings and see if it is playing in your area. Then seek it out. Natalie Portman does not disappoint.

I scored “Jane Got a Gun” a loaded 7 out of 10.