THE OLD MAN & THE GUN

This was Robert Redford’s last film role and given his recent death this seemed like a good time to view it.

One way of framing it would be Happy Crook vs Sad Cop. 

Redford plays Forrest Tucker a compulsive bank robber, specialising in small jobs.  He has an effective MO which has served him happily for many years whereby he relies on his gentlemanly charm so as to avoid using his gun.

Casey Affleck plays disillusioned Detective John Hunt who is thinking of leaving the force but for whom the pursuit of Tucker provides some purpose.

Plot wise Hunt’s pursuit of Tucker isn’t that gripping especially since I found Affleck’s performance unengaging.  In fact the presence of Affleck is my biggest problem with this film.  It’s probably the case that the sexual harassment allegations against Affleck were colouring my response but anyway for whatever reason I didn't enjoy any scene in which he appeared. 

That includes a strange and implausible scene in which Tucker and Hunt accidentally meet. It’s at a diner but it’s not exactly De Niro vs Pacino.  I was left puzzled as to why Hunt doesn’t arrest Tucker there and then.

Away from robbing banks, Tucker embarks on a gentle romantic relationship with Jewel (Sissy Spacek), which was the part of the film I enjoyed most. 

Spacek is in fine form but even she cannot entice Tucker away from his life of crime. A different film might explore Tucker’s pathology but here everything is kept light and superficial.

Adding to the nice Seniors Vibe are Danny Glover and Tom Waits as associates of Tucker.

Ultimately the main reason to watch this is Redford’s relaxed and charming performance which highlights his strengths as an actor.  It's a decent enough way to bow out.

RATING: ✓ Cheers