Robert Redford is more than an actor. He is a cinema icon, director, producer and environmental activist. His career spans decades, and his films have become a permanent part of the history of cinematography. Handsome, talented and charismatic, Redford has won the hearts of millions of viewers around the world.
Spis treści
Early Years and Early Career
He was born on August 18, 1936 in Santa Monica, California. His road to Hollywood was not a bed of roses. After a difficult period in his youth, marked by rebellion and problems with alcohol, Redford discovered his passion for acting. Initially, he performed on Broadway, and then moved to television and film.
His film debut was a role in the 1962 war drama “War Hunt”. However, his breakthrough came a few years later, thanks to his role in the film “Inside Daisy Clover” (1965), for which he received the Golden Globe for Most Promising Actor.
Golden Boy Hollywood
The 60s and 70s were a golden period in Redford’s career. In 1967, he starred alongside Jane Fonda in the romantic comedy “Barefoot in the Park”, which established his position as a star. The nickname “Golden Boy of Hollywood” perfectly reflected his status at the time.
The real success, however, came with the western “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969). The role of the Sundance Kid, alongside Paul Newman, brought him international fame and became one of his most recognizable incarnations.
In the 70s. Redford continued his streak of success, starring in such films as:
- “The Sting” (1973) – a cult film about gamblers, in which he again starred with Paul Newman.
- “The Great Gatsby” (1974) – a film adaptation of the novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, in which he played the title role.
- “Three Days of the Condor” (1975) – A political thriller in which he played a CIA employee.
- “All the President’s Men” (1976) – A film about the Watergate scandal, in which he played the role of journalist Bob Woodward.
From Actor to Director
Redford did not limit himself to acting. In 1980, he made his directorial debut with the film “Ordinary People”, which won four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director.
In the following years, he directed such films as:
- “Quiz Show” (1994) – about the scandal with game shows in the 50s
- “The Horse Whisperer” (1998) – a touching story about a horse healer.
- “The Legend of Bagger Vance” (2000) – A golf movie starring Matt Damon.
Sundance and Independent Cinema
Robert Redford is not only a Hollywood icon, but also an important figure in the world of independent cinema. In 1981, he founded the Sundance Institute, a non-profit organization supporting young filmmakers. The Institute organizes the Sundance Film Festival, one of the most important events in the world of independent cinema.
Social and Political Activity
Redford is known for his involvement in social and political causes. He is an active activist for the protection of the environment and Native American rights. He publicly criticized the policies of the George W. Bush and Donald Trump administrations.
Last Years and Retirement
In recent years, Redford has limited his acting activities. In 2018, he announced the end of his acting career, although he later appeared in several more films.
Robert Redford is a true legend of cinema. His films, both those in which he played and those he directed, have become a permanent part of the history of cinematography. His talent, charisma and social commitment have made him one of the most recognizable and respected figures in the world of film.
