I sat down and started to watch this movie at least three times before I bit the bullet and actually got through the first act.

And in the end? It’s pretty satisfying. I don’t think I’ll ever be a fan of Sydney Pollack’s directing, nor necessarily of Robert Redford’s acting – or even Faye Dunaway’s, for that matter – but it’s a great, great story, with an amazing ending. Sure, it could have been 30 minutes shorter, but I can see how this was popular in 1975. It was enjoyable for different reasons than The French Connection, and maybe not as good, but the pacing and directorial style certainly bring that 1971 classic to mind. You can also see how this type of film would have heavily influenced Ludlum’s Bourne books, and their film adaptations, as well.

All in all, it’s one of those films that gives you a sense of appreciation for the history of film. Worth watching.

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Lars and the Real Girl, part 2
The Darjeeling Limited
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