Robert Redford — actor, director, environmentalist, and a north star of American cinema — has passed away at age 89, on September 16, 2025, at his home in Sundance, Utah. His work spanned decades, from romantic dramas to westerns, political thrillers, and intimate directorial gems.
As we remember Redford, here are 10 must-watch movies that showcase his range, depth, and lasting impact.
10 Must-Watch Robert Redford Films
1.Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
One of his earliest signature roles as a Hollywood star, alongside Paul Newman. A playful, rugged western with wit, swagger, and the kind of chemistry that makes this film endure. It remains one of the most rewatchable westerns ever made.
2.The Sting (1973)
Reuniting with Paul Newman, Redford takes on the role of con artist Johnny Hooker in this jazzy, clever caper. Set in Depression-era Chicago, the movie brims with charm, deception, and a plot twist that still surprises first-time viewers.
3. All the President’s Men (1976)
Serious, driven, and essential. Redford plays Bob Woodward, one of the journalists who uncovered the Watergate scandal. Alongside Dustin Hoffman, he brings intensity and intelligence to a film that redefined investigative journalism in pop culture.
4. The Way We Were (1973)
In this sweeping romantic drama, Redford plays Hubbell Gardiner, a charming but conflicted man entangled in a passionate love affair with Barbra Streisand’s character, Katie. If you want Redford in his romantic hero mode, this one’s a go-to.
5. Jeremiah Johnson (1972)
A quieter, contemplative entry in his career, Redford shines as a lone frontiersman searching for peace in the harsh wilderness. The film is visually stunning, capturing vast mountain landscapes while reflecting on solitude and survival — very different pacing from his urban dramas.
6. The Natural (1984)
Redford plays Roy Hobbs, a baseball prodigy whose career is derailed by tragedy, only to return years later for a second shot at glory. Lyrical imagery, a great supporting cast, and one of Redford’s more iconic, nostalgic performances.
7. Ordinary People (1980)
Redford’s directorial debut, and the one that won him his Oscar. A deeply emotional family drama about grief, guilt, and healing. Shows his mastery behind the camera, not just in front of it.
8. All Is Lost (2013)
A nearly wordless performance that leans entirely on Redford’s physicality, facial expression, and presence. Alone at sea, against overwhelming odds — this is Redford pared down to raw survival, and it’s deeply powerful.
9. The Horse Whisperer (1998)
Both starring in and directing, Redford delivers a heartfelt story about healing and resilience. As Tom Booker, a horse trainer with an extraordinary gift, he helps a young girl and her injured horse recover from trauma.
10. The Old Man & the Gun (2018)
One of his final starring roles; here Redford plays an ageing bank robber who’s charming, nostalgic, and oddly graceful. It’s a fitting capstone: playful yet tinged with the passage of time.
Although Robert Redford has left us, his artistry, influence, and unforgettable screen presence continue to shine through these films. Whether you’re watching them again or discovering them anew, his legacy lives on in every frame. May his soul rest in peace.
