One of Robert Redford’s last films before he died has been labelled a “masterpiece” by movie fans. The actor performed well into his later years, continuing to add to his impressive catalogue of projects into his 80s. The actor is best known for his roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men, but there are a huge number of films featuring Redford that you may not have seen.
He passed away on Tuesday morning at his home in Utah. A statement from Redford’s representatives said that he died in Sundance, in the “place he loved, surrounded by those he loved”. His cause of death has not yet been publicly announced, but the performer had a number of health battles throughout his life. Redford’s career started on the stage when he starred in Tall Story (1959) on Broadway. In 1960, he made his screen debut in Tall Story, an adaptation of the play he had been in ten years before. Since then, his career has reached massive heights, and he has received an Oscar, A BAFTA and many more accolades.
One of Redford’s later roles was in The Old Man & the Gun, which received rave reviews from both critics and casual viewers. The 2018 film sees the Hollywood legend playing a character called Forrest Tucker, an infamous criminal and escape artist who manages to break out of San Quentin State Prison.
Despite his old age, he embarks on an action-packed crime spree, with a detective hot on his trail throughout. Fans loved this film, and one even said: “Absolute masterpiece of a film. Historic.”
Another reviewer wrote: “I grew up watching films starring Redford. This is absolutely right for his last one. He made me smile through tears in the end.”
A third shared: “Perfectly and evenly woven between interesting true story, great writing, and send-off to a cinematic legend. The tribute was done so well and yet didn’t take you out of the movie at all. It was clear it was directed with someone who had a firm grasp on his/her craft.”
A fourth said: “Excellent movie! Robert Redford still commands the screen. Great ensemble cast. Harkens back to a simpler and happier time.”
The Old Man & the Gun is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video in the UK.