17 Robert Redford Films Every Movie Buff Needs to Watch

Robert Redford, the legendary actor and director, announced his retirement from acting in 2018, after an incredible 60-year career that has left an indelible mark on Hollywood.¹ With a staggering 34 films under his belt, Redford’s contributions to cinema are unparalleled. 

Here are 17 of his most iconic and must-see films that showcase the breadth and depth of his remarkable legacy.

1. Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid (1969)

Redford’s portrayal of the charming outlaw Sundance Kid opposite Paul Newman’s Butch Cassidy catapulted him to stardom. The film’s witty dialogue, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable soundtrack make it a timeless classic.

“Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” won four Academy Awards and solidified Redford’s status as a leading man.

2. The Sting (1973)

Reuniting with Paul Newman, Redford starred in this stylish caper film about two con men seeking revenge on a ruthless crime boss. Redford’s performance as the suave and clever Johnny Hooker is a highlight of the film.

“The Sting” was a massive critical and commercial success, winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

3. All the President’s Men (1976)

Based on true events, this gripping political thriller features Redford as Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward, investigating the Watergate scandal alongside Carl Bernstein (Dustin Hoffman).

A box office hit, “All the President’s Men” won four Academy Awards and cemented Redford’s reputation as a serious actor.

4. The Way We Were (1973)

Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford’s palpable chemistry lights up the screen in this poignant romantic drama about two ideologically opposed lovers.

The film’s commercial success and iconic theme song have made it a classic, with Redford delivering a powerful performance.

5. The Natural (1984)

Stunning cinematography, an unforgettable score, and a powerful performance from Redford make “The Natural” a quintessential sports film.

Redford shines in this beloved drama as Roy Hobbs, a gifted baseball player whose career is derailed by a mysterious woman.

6. Out of Africa (1985)

Sweeping landscapes and searing performances define this epic romance, in which Redford stars opposite Meryl Streep as a big-game hunter who captures the heart of a Danish baroness in early 20th-century Kenya.

“Out of Africa” won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, showcasing Redford’s ability to hold his own against one of the greatest actresses of all time.

7. Sneakers (1992)

Leading an all-star cast, Redford brings wit and charm to this lighthearted caper film about a group of security experts tasked with retrieving a top-secret black box.

“Sneakers” allows Redford to showcase his comedic chops alongside his dramatic prowess, resulting in a fun and engaging thriller.

8. Indecent Proposal (1993)

The controversial premise of a billionaire offering a struggling couple $1 million for a night with the wife (Demi Moore) is anchored by Redford’s suave and morally ambiguous portrayal of John Gage.

While the film received mixed reviews, Redford’s performance was praised for its depth and nuance.

9. Quiz Show (1994)

Tackling the 1950s quiz show scandals, Redford’s second directorial effort is a gripping drama that earned critical acclaim and four Academy Award nominations.

Starring in the film as well, Redford cements his status as a talented filmmaker with “Quiz Show”.

10. Up Close & Personal (1996)

Sparks fly between Redford and Michelle Pfeiffer in this romantic drama loosely based on the life of journalist Jessica Savitch.

Despite mixed reviews, the film showcases the undeniable chemistry between its leads, with Redford delivering a strong performance as a veteran news director mentoring a young reporter.

11. The Horse Whisperer (1998)

Adapted from Nicholas Evans’ novel, “The Horse Whisperer” showcases Redford’s skill both in front of and behind the camera.

As a talented horse trainer helping a young girl and her injured horse recover from a traumatic accident, Redford delivers a nuanced performance in this box office success.

12. Spy Game (2001)

Time is ticking for Redford’s retiring CIA agent as he races to save his protégé (Brad Pitt) from execution in China.

Praised for its intricate plot and sharp dialogue, “Spy Game” features compelling performances from its two leads, making it a tense and engaging thriller.

13. The Last Castle (2001)

James Gandolfini and Robert Redford square off in this underrated prison drama, with Redford playing a court-martialed general leading a revolt against a corrupt warden.

Redford’s commanding performance and the film’s action-packed plot make it a must-see for fans of the actor.

14. An Unfinished Life (2005)

Family dynamics are put to the test in this poignant drama, which features stunning cinematography and powerful performances from its cast.

Redford delivers a particularly moving portrayal of a gruff rancher forced to confront his past when his estranged daughter-in-law (Jennifer Lopez) and granddaughter move in with him.

15. Lions for Lambs (2007)

Ambitious in its scope, “Lions for Lambs” tackles weighty issues like war, politics, and the media through interconnected stories involving a professor, a journalist, and two soldiers.

The film received mixed reviews, but Redford’s direction and performance showcase his continued commitment to thought-provoking cinema.

16. All is Lost (2013)

A tour-de-force performance from Redford anchors this gripping survival drama about a sailor stranded alone at sea after his yacht collides with a shipping container.

With minimal dialogue and virtually no other cast members, “All Is Lost” is a testament to Redford’s incredible acting prowess and screen presence.

17. The Old Man & the Gun (2018)

Effortless charm and undeniable screen presence define Redford’s final acting role before retiring, as he portrays Forrest Tucker, an elderly bank robber embarking on a string of heists while pursuing a romance with Jewel (Sissy Spacek).

“The Old Man & the Gun” serves as a fitting swan song for an incredible career.

Source:
1. People