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Best Robert Redford Movies
11th Nov 2025
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Robert Redford, a name synonymous with classic Hollywood cool, boasts a filmography that spans decades and genres. From his early breakout roles to his later directorial efforts, Redford has captivated audiences with his charisma, talent, and dedication to storytelling. This poll celebrates the best of his acting career, offering a chance to revisit some of cinema's most beloved and influential films. Now it's your turn! Below, you'll find a selection of Redford's most iconic performances. Browse the list, reminisce about your favorite moments, and cast your vote for the titles that have left the biggest impression on you. Don't miss the chance to share your opinion and help us determine the definitive list of Robert Redford's best movies!
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#1.
Ordinary People (1980)
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In the poignant 1980 drama *Ordinary People*, the affluent Jarrett family is fractured by an unspeakable tragedy: the accidental death of their elder son, Jordan. Following this profound loss, their surviving son, Conrad, battles immense grief and misplaced guilt, which culminated in a suicide attempt. He navigates arduous therapy, grappling with his inner turmoil. His mother, Beth, struggles to connect with him, her grief manifesting as a rigid, unsupportive demeanor, having always favored the deceased brother. Caught in the agonizing middle is Calvin, the father, desperately trying to bridge the chasm between his wife and son, a silent struggle to hold his fractured family together against an overwhelming tide of unspoken pain and resentment. Though Robert Redford does not appear on screen, *Ordinary People* holds a distinguished place on any "Best Robert Redford Movies" list as his remarkable directorial debut. His masterful handling of this emotionally complex narrative earned him the Academy Award for Best Director, a testament to his keen understanding of human psychology and his ability to elicit raw, authentic performances from his cast. Redford chose a deeply intimate and unvarnished approach, avoiding melodrama in favor of a searingly honest portrayal of a family's descent into and potential emergence from despair. The film itself swept major categories at the Oscars, including Best Picture, solidifying Redford's unexpected, yet profound, transition from iconic leading man to acclaimed filmmaker, demonstrating his artistic vision extends far beyond acting.
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#1.
Ordinary People (1980)
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In the poignant 1980 drama *Ordinary People*, the affluent Jarrett family is fractured by an unspeakable tragedy: the accidental death of their elder son, Jordan. Following this profound loss, their surviving son, Conrad, battles immense grief and misplaced guilt, which culminated in a suicide attempt. He navigates arduous therapy, grappling with his inner turmoil. His mother, Beth, struggles to connect with him, her grief manifesting as a rigid, unsupportive demeanor, having always favored the deceased brother. Caught in the agonizing middle is Calvin, the father, desperately trying to bridge the chasm between his wife and son, a silent struggle to hold his fractured family together against an overwhelming tide of unspoken pain and resentment. Though Robert Redford does not appear on screen, *Ordinary People* holds a distinguished place on any "Best Robert Redford Movies" list as his remarkable directorial debut. His masterful handling of this emotionally complex narrative earned him the Academy Award for Best Director, a testament to his keen understanding of human psychology and his ability to elicit raw, authentic performances from his cast. Redford chose a deeply intimate and unvarnished approach, avoiding melodrama in favor of a searingly honest portrayal of a family's descent into and potential emergence from despair. The film itself swept major categories at the Oscars, including Best Picture, solidifying Redford's unexpected, yet profound, transition from iconic leading man to acclaimed filmmaker, demonstrating his artistic vision extends far beyond acting.
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Ordinary People (1980)
In the poignant 1980 drama *Ordinary People*, the affluent Jarrett family is fractured by an unspeakable tragedy: the accidental death of their elder son, Jordan. Following this profound loss, their surviving son, Conrad, battles immense grief and misplaced guilt, which culminated in a suicide attempt. He navigates arduous therapy, grappling with his inner turmoil. His mother, Beth, struggles to connect with him, her grief manifesting as a rigid, unsupportive demeanor, having always favored the deceased brother. Caught in the agonizing middle is Calvin, the father, desperately trying to bridge the chasm between his wife and son, a silent struggle to hold his fractured family together against an overwhelming tide of unspoken pain and resentment. Though Robert Redford does not appear on screen, *Ordinary People* holds a distinguished place on any "Best Robert Redford Movies" list as his remarkable directorial debut. His masterful handling of this emotionally complex narrative earned him the Academy Award for Best Director, a testament to his keen understanding of human psychology and his ability to elicit raw, authentic performances from his cast. Redford chose a deeply intimate and unvarnished approach, avoiding melodrama in favor of a searingly honest portrayal of a family's descent into and potential emergence from despair. The film itself swept major categories at the Oscars, including Best Picture, solidifying Redford's unexpected, yet profound, transition from iconic leading man to acclaimed filmmaker, demonstrating his artistic vision extends far beyond acting.
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Quiz Show (1994)
**Quiz Show (1994)** Quiz Show is a 1994 American historical drama film which tells the true story of the Twenty One quiz show scandal of the 1950s. Directed by Robert Redford, the film meticulously unravels the public's widespread disillusionment as it exposes how popular television game shows were systematically rigged. It centers on the contrasting figures of intellectual golden boy Charles Van Doren (Ralph Fiennes) and the previously reigning champion Herbert Stempel (John Turturro), whose lives were irrevocably altered by the deceit at the heart of America's burgeoning television age, forcing a nation to confront the betrayal of its trust in a seemingly innocent form of entertainment. Though Robert Redford does not star in *Quiz Show*, its rightful place on a list of his "Best Movies" stems from its profound impact as a directorial triumph, earning four Academy Award nominations including Best Picture and Best Director. The film exemplifies Redford's consistent fascination with themes of integrity, institutional corruption, and the moral ambiguities inherent in American idealism, topics he has explored extensively both in front of and behind the camera. His meticulous direction draws powerful performances from its ensemble cast, showcasing his ability to elevate a historical event into a timeless examination of truth, celebrity, and the formative, often deceptive, power of media.
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A River Runs Through It (1992)
*A River Runs Through It* (1992) is a cinematographically stunning true story based on Norman Maclean's poignant memoir, beautifully capturing a bygone era. Set against the majestic, untamed backdrop of Montana in the 1920s, the film chronicles the lives of Norman and his charismatic, rebellious brother Paul. It explores their contrasting paths through life and growing up, and how their shared, almost spiritual love for fly fishing serves as a constant, if sometimes fragile, bond amidst varying life circumstances and the profound challenges of family connection and understanding. This film undeniably earns its place among the "Best Robert Redford Movies" not for an acting performance, but as a masterful demonstration of his directorial vision and a deeply personal project. Redford not only helmed the project with a delicate hand, eliciting career-defining performances (notably from Brad Pitt), but also served as the film's evocative narrator, lending the voice of the older Norman Maclean. His passion for the American West, its landscapes, and its understated human dramas shines through every frame, capturing the film's themes of family, nature, faith, and the passage of time with profound sensitivity. The film's critical acclaim, Academy Award for Cinematography, and enduring emotional resonance stand as a testament to Redford's skill in bringing Maclean's deeply personal story to cinematic life, solidifying its status as one of his most significant artistic achievements.
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The Conspirator (2010)
Directed by Robert Redford, *The Conspirator* (2010) delves into the fraught political and judicial landscape following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. The film chronicles the true story of Mary Surratt (Robin Wright), who is the lone female charged as a co-conspirator in the assassination trial. As the entire nation turns against her, blinded by grief and a desire for retribution, Surratt is forced to rely on her reluctant lawyer, Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy), a decorated Union war hero, to uncover the truth behind the charges and navigate a rigged system in a desperate bid to save her life. *The Conspirator* belongs on a list of "Best Robert Redford Movies" as a powerful testament to his considerable talents as a director. While Redford himself does not appear on screen, the film bears all the hallmarks of his discerning directorial vision: a meticulous attention to historical detail, a profound exploration of American ideals and their compromises, and a keen focus on the moral ambiguities faced by individuals caught in the machinery of power. Redford skillfully crafts a tense, emotionally resonant historical drama that examines the fragility of justice under duress, compelling strong performances from his lead actors and reinforcing his reputation as a filmmaker who consistently uses history to illuminate timeless human struggles and societal issues.
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The Milagro Beanfield War (1988)
**The Milagro Beanfield War (1988)** vividly brings to life the struggle of a small, economically struggling Hispanic community in the American Southwest as it faces the encroachment of modern development. As Ladd Devine plans a massive new resort, threatening the traditional way of life and the eventual displacement of local farmers, activist Ruby Archuleta and lawyer/newspaper editor Charlie Bloom find it difficult to rally the townsfolk, many of whom are swayed by the immediate promise of construction jobs. The true catalyst for rebellion, however, comes when an eccentric local, Joe Mondragon, illegally diverts a trickle of water to irrigate his neglected beanfield, sparking a David-and-Goliath battle against powerful developers and the state, all infused with a touch of magical realism. This charming and poignant film stands out as one of Robert Redford's best directorial achievements, making it a natural fit for a list of his top movies. While Redford himself doesn't appear on screen, his distinctive humanist touch is evident throughout, aligning perfectly with his long-standing commitment to environmentalism, cultural preservation, and championing underdog stories against overwhelming odds. *The Milagro Beanfield War* showcases Redford's ability to craft a visually rich, character-driven narrative that celebrates community resilience and the fight for cultural authenticity, proving a deeply personal and resonant entry in his celebrated filmography that perfectly encapsulates his artistic and social values.
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The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
The 2000 film *The Legend of Bagger Vance* delves into the profound post-war struggles of golfer Rannulph Junuh (Matt Damon). World War I has left him a poker-playing alcoholic, his perfect swing gone. When the financially ravaged golf course of a long-ago sweetheart (Charlize Theron) faces foreclosure, Junuh is reluctantly called upon to rediscover his game and compete in a high-stakes tournament. His seemingly impossible task is made slightly less daunting by the arrival of the mysterious and enigmatic caddy, Bagger Vance (Will Smith), whose unconventional wisdom offers more than just golf advice, pushing Junuh to confront his inner demons and find his authentic "true swing." Though not appearing on screen, *The Legend of Bagger Vance* earns its place on a list of "Best Robert Redford Movies" as a testament to his sensitive and evocative direction. Redford masterfully crafts a fable-like narrative, imbued with a classic American spirit of redemption and self-discovery, hallmarks of his own artistic sensibilities. His directorial touch is evident in the film's stunning cinematography, which beautifully captures the lush golf landscapes and the nostalgic atmosphere of the 1930s. More profoundly, Redford explores themes of overcoming inner demons, finding one's true purpose, and the spiritual nature of the game, guiding his cast through performances that resonate with depth and emotion, showcasing his ability to tell a visually rich and emotionally resonant story, even when stepping behind the camera.
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The Horse Whisperer (1998)
*The Horse Whisperer* (1998) is a poignant and visually stunning film, based on the bestselling novel by Nicholas Evans. This meditative family drama, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the American countryside, sees the legendary Robert Redford not only direct but also deliver a compelling performance. He stars as Tom Booker, a laconic cowboy gifted with a unique, almost magical talent for healing troubled horses and, by extension, the humans who care for them, offering solace and understanding in the wake of a tragic accident. This film rightfully earns its place among Robert Redford's best works due to its masterful blend of his directorial vision and a deeply resonant acting performance. As director, Redford crafts a beautifully paced narrative that revels in the majestic landscapes, allowing the emotional depth of the story to unfold organically. His portrayal of Tom Booker is a quintessential Redford role, exuding quiet authority, wisdom, and a profound empathy that grounds the entire film. *The Horse Whisperer* is a testament to Redford's ability to create character-driven cinema that is both grand in scope and intimate in its exploration of grief, healing, and the power of connection, solidifying its status as a memorable and essential entry in his illustrious career.
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The Company You Keep (2012)
"The Company You Keep (2012)" plunges into the murky waters of a forgotten past, centering on Jim Grant (Robert Redford), a seemingly innocuous lawyer in upstate New York. His meticulously constructed life shatters when a young, ambitious journalist, Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf), uncovers his true identity: Nick Sloan, a former Weather Underground radical wanted for a murder committed decades prior. As Sloan goes on the run, relentlessly pursued by Shepard, the film unravels a complex web of loyalty, betrayal, and ideological conviction, forcing both characters to confront the lingering consequences of choices made in a bygone era. The narrative is further enriched by an impressive ensemble cast, including Julie Christie, Susan Sarandon, and Stanley Tucci, portraying various figures from Sloan's radical past. This film rightfully earns its place on a "Best Robert Redford Movies" list not only for his nuanced, world-weary performance as the elusive fugitive but also because it is a prime example of his directorial vision. As a filmmaker, Redford consistently gravitates towards intelligent, character-driven dramas that grapple with complex ethical questions, American history, and the often-uncomfortable intersection of personal conviction and societal responsibility. "The Company You Keep" perfectly encapsulates these signature themes, allowing Redford to explore the lasting impact of radical idealism and the subjective nature of justice. His portrayal of Jim Grant/Nick Sloan is a masterclass in quiet intensity, embodying the weight of decades of secrets and the burden of a life lived in hiding. It showcases his mature gravitas as an actor while reaffirming his status as a director committed to thought-provoking, socially conscious cinema, making it a significant entry in his distinguished career.
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Lions for Lambs (2007)
*Lions for Lambs (2007)* is a gripping geopolitical drama that masterfully interweaves three simultaneous narratives, all unfolding in real-time over ninety minutes. The film sets the stage with a shrewd Republican Senator and presidential hopeful outlining a contentious Afghanistan war strategy to a skeptical television journalist. Concurrently, two former students of the senator's, now Special Forces soldiers, find themselves ambushed on an Afghani ridge, facing overwhelming Taliban forces while awaiting rescue. Meanwhile, back in California, their former political science professor urgently attempts to re-engage a disillusioned student, encouraging active participation in a world that often feels beyond control. This unique structure allows the film to explore the complex interplay between political rhetoric, on-the-ground sacrifice, and academic idealism. Beyond its intricate narrative, *Lions for Lambs* earns its place on a "Best Robert Redford Movies" list not just because he directed it, but for his commanding and deeply resonant performance as Dr. Stephen Malley, the disillusioned yet fervent political science professor. Redford brings his characteristic gravitas and a poignant sense of urgency to Malley, portraying a man who has witnessed the cynicism of power and the sacrifice of youth, desperately trying to instill a sense of responsibility and active citizenship in the next generation. His role as Malley is a quintessential Redford character – an idealist grappling with complex moral dilemmas, reflecting the activist spirit and intellectual curiosity that have defined much of his career, both in front of and behind the camera. It's a powerful late-career turn that showcases his enduring ability to anchor a thought-provoking drama, making it a compelling entry among his most significant works.
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