‘The Old Man and the Gun’ is charming and gracious

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The Sundance Kid has finally become the Sundown Kid. Robert Redford has transitioned from Hollywood heartthrob to acclaimed director and finally to beloved American icon. “The Old Man and the Gun” is Redford’s swan song, as the cinematic legend is retiring. For many reasons, this end-of-line adventure is a fitting curtain call.

Based on the true story of Forrest Tucker (not related to the late character actor), from his audacious escape from San Quentin at the age of 70 to an unprecedented string of bank heists, Forrest confounded authorities and enchanted the public with his charm and gracious demeanor. Like the character, the entire film is charming and gracious.

For his grand finale, Redford chose the role, optioned the 2003 David Grann New Yorker article and chose director David Lowery (“Pete’s Dragon”). In this unlikely cops and robbers flick, the pace is measured (slow) but mesmerizing. It’s humorous but not hilarious. It’s told low-key, like a fable, about how years go by with few regrets.

The terrific supporting cast includes Academy Award winner Sissy Spacek as Forrest’s love interest. Oscar winner Casey Affleck is the police detective hot on the trail while respecting Forrest’s commitment to his craft. The detective’s fellow officers rib him, “Don’t’ worry, we’ve got AARP on the case!” Veteran Danny Glover and Academy-nominated blues singer Tom Waits are Forrest’s “Over the Hill Gang.”

Set in 1981 Texas, we learn how Forrest calmly strolls into a bank, politely asks for the money with a genuine smile, and gracefully departs the scene. We don’t get the impression he’s doing it for the money or for any political or social message, but because it’s what he does. How great a feeling is it to do what you love?

Radiating a smooth, folksy confidence, Forrest explains to Jewel (Spacek) what he does for a living, “What would be worse? If I was telling a lie or the truth?” As Detective Hunt, Affleck seemingly moves in slow motion with his typical moody, brooding character, bordering on lazy. Forrest tells Hunt, “You should dress like you know what you’re doing, even though you don’t.” Hunt responds, “I know what I’m doing.”

This felon never fires his revolver, never raises his voice and leaves each victim surprised by his manner. He shares sage wisdom, despite no relevant message, other than living life doing what he believes he does best. His resolve is admirable on many levels but seems to not care much about the collateral damage, including his family.

Even with the sparkling cast, this is Redford’s story. With a twinkle in his eye, he uses Forrest’s character to show his appreciation to his audience. With years of dedication to his art, there is recognition that he’s been far from perfect but rarely wonders how things might have been. Yet, he has continued his pursuit with professionalism and a smile. With the passage of time, we wonder how much it applies to all of us.

In his last acting role, the 82-year-old Redford says he wanted his last job to be fun. Like his character, he charms his way through the story. He and Spacek generate genuine chemistry while Waits wields his noted dry, off-beat humor. Rather than the booming musical orchestrations, we hear a series of affable diddies as the score.

“The Old Man and the Gun” is 93 minutes and rated PG-13 for brief strong language. There isn’t much “wow factor” in what could have been a vulgar and raucous action procedural. Instead, it’s more like your favorite uncle calmly sharing intriguing stories of his unknown past. The audience is glued to the screen and sorry when story time is over.

As Forrest coolly walks away from each heist, we were tempted to yell, “Run Forrest Run!” One robbery victim describes Forrest to Detective Hunt, “He seemed like such a nice fella.” However, it reminds us that Al Capone once advised, “You can get much farther with a kind word and a gun than you can with a kind word alone.”

Ron’s Rating: B
Leigh’s Rating: B