The Old Man & the Gun

Not only was Robert Redford the face of Hollywood in the 1970s, but as founder of the Sundance film festival he is also godfather to the modern independent movie scene. Both factors figure heavily in The Old Man & the Gun, a "mostly" true story that showcases the latest and likely last performance from the octogenarian actor. Redford stars as Forrest Tucker, an elderly criminal making his way across the USA in the early 1980s with a small but effective back-up crew (Tom Waits and Danny Glover) - a bunch of reprobates dubbed the Over the Hill Gang. The plot, such as it is, is almost negligible. Instead, The Old Man & the Gun is a character piece that offsets moments of romance and poignant introspection with thrilling action featuring old-school zooms and whip-pans. Movie buffs will have a field day, but, at a crisp 90 minutes, Sundance alumnus David Lowery's film also has a life and energy of its own.