The Old Man & the Gun Movie Review

When I first saw the trailer for Robert Redford’s “The Old Man & the Gun” I just knew I had to see it, and that my husband would love it! I must confess I’ve yet to take Keith to see this beautifully done film, but it’s on the books. I set up a girls’ day with brunch and a movie with a couple of girlfriends and we got to see The Old Man & the Gun before our husbands. We were just testing it out for them, really. Kind of like tasting the cake before everyone else – we have to make sure it won’t poison anyone, right? 

They’re calling The Old Man & the Gun Robert Redford’s Swan Song, meaning his final on-screen performance. We’ll see if this really plays out, but if so, it makes for the perfect farewell to the big screen. The charm Redford puts on throughout the entire film is spellbinding. Then there’s the chemistry with Sissy Spacek and I must say the two are simply adorable together. The scenes between the two will only make the corners of your mouth curl up with a smirk and perhaps a giggle. 

Redford plays 79 year old bank robber, Forrest Tucker, who doesn’t rob for the riches, but for the love of the game. He does it with a suave and finesse that those being robbed hardly think of him as the bad guy. In fact, they call him a bit of a gentleman. He escapes prison more times than I can remember, and Casey Affleck is determined to put him behind bars once and for all.

The Old Man & the Gun provides a touch of comedy, part love story and some old-time crime thriller. The slower pace may not captivate all audiences, but it held my attention perfectly fine. The older generation will certainly love The Old Man & the Gun, as will those with old souls (like myself). The movie makes for a beautiful ending to the Sundance Kid’s career and you won’t want to miss it! Keep an eye out for treasured photos/stills throughout the film, from Redford’s career.