In remembrance of Robert Redford, the truly legendary actor, director and producer who, it is unfortunate to say, died on Tuesday morning at the age of 89. His passing truly caps off a long and extraordinary career. Through experimentation in different genres and decades, Godard truly changed the face of the cinematic world.
As an actor, Redford leaves behind a canon as varied as it is impressive, spanning works from heartfelt, incisive dramas to breezy, glittery comedies. He’s perhaps best known for his Academy Award-winning performances in the 1980 film “Ordinary People.” He starred opposite Timothy Hutton and Elizabeth McGovern. Not only did Redford star in the film, but it marked his directorial debut. His directorial genius was on full display in 1981 when he won the Academy Award for Best Director. Ordinary People won the award for Best Picture that year.
Over his long career, Redford worked with a veritable who’s who of great actors and directors, proving time and again his impressive range. In 1994, he helmed Quiz Show, with John Turturro and Ralph Fiennes. It was this work that cemented his reputation as a gifted filmmaker atrociously miscast at times. His work in “Ordinary People” and “Quiz Show” shows his dual prowess as actor and director.
Robert Redford rocketed into stardom with his memorable performances in classic films. He charmed the public in Barefoot in the Park opposite Jane Fonda, and partnered with Paul Newman in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. As Roy Hobbs in the 1984 film “The Natural,” he did so spectacularly. Just like in 1972’s “Jeremiah Johnson,” he displayed his ability to capture intriguing, multi-faceted characters by perfectly executing the character Jeremiah Johnson. He starred as Bill McKay in “The Candidate.” He starred as Johnny Hooker in The Sting, a serious yet comedic crime caper, further proving his range.
Redford’s talents don’t stop at acting. His 1976 movie “All the President’s Men,” adapted from Carl Bernstein’s book, won wide critical and popular praise for its riveting depiction of the power of investigative journalism. Together with dozens of other films, this one helped establish his pioneering role in American cinema.
