A Reel Review: THE OLD MAN & THE GUN

If the legend known as Robert Redford makes good on his promise to retire, making THE OLD MAN & THE GUN his final film, then he could not have picked a better yarn to go out on. His newest, and final role has a lot in common with characters he played in THE STING (1973), and BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID (1969); those rascally-rabbit guys who can get away with anything simply by flashing a smile. For writer and director David Lowery, the task was his to send Redford out into the sunset on the right horse. 

Mostly based on a true story, Forrest Tucker (Redford) is the leader of the “Over the Hill Gang” (which includes Danny Glover and Tom Waits); a trio of 70-something gentlemen who pull off major bank-robbery scores by using their smiles and charms and never pulling a gun. During one of his getaways, he meets Jewel (Sissy Spacek), and the two begin a courtship, while local detective John Hunt (Casey Affleck) is hot on his trail. 

THE OLD MAN & THE GUN unspools like the classic films that Redford’s name has been attached to. Simple in nature and full of charm, it serves as a heist film, cops-and-robbers tale, and a love story all at once. While Hunt is on the (ahem), hunt for the robbers, Tucker begins a romance with Jewel…while never fully telling her what he does for a living. There is a lot of cat-and-mousing going on, with Tucker playing the game of trying to live in two worlds. 

Always one to take the time with his characters, Lowery isn’t concerned with plot as much as he is the players. The film often slows right down to spend time with the characters and have a chat over coffee and pie, and through slow reveals we get to know everyone very well. The true core of the film is revealed here, with a strong contrast between Hunt and Tucker; Hunt is miserable in his career while Tucker is having a blast…and yet Hunt’s family life is something Tucker just can’t seem to grasp. 

For a film that seems to have not much happen, Lowery keeps the pacing brisk, and his dialogue is a joy to listen to. The film is shot in a gritty way that makes it look like it was made 40 years ago, and the time-setting of the 1980’s adds a nice touch of nostalgia. Lowery also re-uses footage from THE CHASE (1966), which stars a young Redford to great effect. 

Acting is wonderful all around. Redford is at his best and seems to be having fun, and despite being 82 years old (he’s 11 years older than Tucker is supposed to be), displays a youthful spirit that is so very pleasing to watch. As good as he is, Sissy Spacek shows that she hasn’t lost a step either, and her chemistry with Redford drives the film. Casey Affleck is very good, and his interactions/chemistry with his on-screen wife (wonderfully played by Tika Sumpter) leaps off the screen. Other roles held down by Elisabeth Moss, David Carradine, and John David Washington are played well. If there is any flaw with the actors it’s that we don’t get nearly enough time with Danny Glover and Tom Waits, who are a blast playing together. 

The last act involves a well-executed twist, which leads to a few more surprises before sending Tucker/Redford to a satisfying end. Much like his character, Tucker is a talent at the end of his career and knows it and is determined to have the best time possible before taking that last bow. It’s a fitting end to a legend, with the added bonus of a fine film around him. 

BOTTOM LINE: See it