Tags
1960's, Buddy Film, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, George Roy Hill, Katharine Ross, Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Western
Film Title
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Director
George Roy Hill
Starring
- Paul Newman as Butch Cassidy
- Robert Redford as the Sundance Kid
- Katharine Ross as Etta Place
Exciting, engaging and entertaining are the three words that spring to mind when I think of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Featuring two affable main characters and loosely based on true events, it is damn near impossible to not be swept up in the funny and irreverent western.
It is the time of the Wild West and outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid belong to the notorious Hole in the Wall Gang. The gang go about robbing banks, thanks to the charisma of Butch and the precise aim with a gun from Sundance when needed. Everything is going pretty amazing for them thanks to the combined skill set of both men in their line of work. Yet the law soon catches up with both of them after a spectacularly explosive hold up and a posse is dispatched to find them, causing our charismatic twosome to flee. Wherever the duo seem to run too, whether it be through the desert, canyons or over rivers, the seemingly tireless posse continues to be hot on their trail. Finally, the outlaws, along with Sundance’s schoolteacher lover Etta Place, flee to Bolivia in search of respite from being chased and of course new opportunities of making money. They go about conducting more successful robberies, but the idyll is shattered when it appears that justice is not going to let go of either of them.
It is obvious almost from the start of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid that director George Roy Hill is having the time of his life displaying a confidence and intrinsic cheekiness in his mounting of this engrossing film. He utilizes experimental touches that are very jaunty and set the film’s tone as firmly tongue in cheek, in stark contrast to a lot of westerns that are very bloody and brutal. Take the opening for example; bathed in sepia, we are introduced to our main characters by way of a silent movie style montage that is bracingly amusing and informs you of all you need to know about the titular outlaws. A crackerjack script(that garnered an Oscar win) has a laugh a minute, particularly in the exchanges between Butch and Sundance that crackle with humour as they get themselves into precarious situations constantly. There are just so many memorable moments that abound in this film that it’s difficult to choose only a few to talk about, but I’ll give it a go. The aforementioned opening is sublime as well as a newspaper and photograph clipping detail of Butch, Sundance and Etta’s interlude throughout various cities. The jump off a gorge, despite the fact Sundance can’t swim is a stand out moment and of course Butch riding without a care in the world on a bicycle with Etta to the strains of ‘Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head’. And who can forget that final freeze frame that immortalizes both characters? Credit must be given highly for introducing us to two of the most charismatic characters to grace the screen. Criminals they may be, but boy are they an affable and amusing duo together on their journey of outrunning the encroaching law. While it has a lot of humour in it, an impending tragedy percolates away in there, bringing with it notes of bittersweetness as death lurks for the outlaws at almost every stop. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is as much a buddy movie as it is a western, as while it adheres to the conventions of a western, the focus is squarely on the main characters more than many westerns and it has a lot more laughs in it, followed by approaching sadness. Beautiful scenery is bountiful and you can’t help but marvel at the various shots of mountains, rivers and hills that are to be found here. There are minor things that time hasn’t been kind to, but I could count these on one hand which shows how it still makes a damn fine impact and experience for any viewer. A nice and skittish score is the ideal representation of how spirited this film is, while not forgetting the eventual feeling of tragedy that will befall our amusing duo.
A simply sublime cast is on hand to give this western a golden boost, in particular the perfect pairing of Paul Newman and Robert Redford as the somewhat opposite desperadoes whose bond is nonetheless strong. Butch is the talkative one with the big ideas, while Sundance is the laconic and more grave individual. Their differences and similarities fit together perfectly, and have us rooting for this dynamic duo. Paul Newman is bright-eyed and full of roguish adventure as Butch, who always has a scheme or plan even in the most dire circumstances. Robert Redford makes Sundance a quiet and collected man with a deadly shot, who is the more serious-minded and cool half of the team. It is impossible to talk about this film without mentioning how Paul Newman and Robert Redford share an unbeatable chemistry, that makes the quips of both characters register with conviction and easy humour. The film would simply have not been the same without both of these actors complimenting the other in an uncannily excellent and amiable fashion. Katharine Ross plays the other important role of Etta, the schoolteacher in love with Sundance along for the ride. Ross is pleasing and softly spoken, yet very assertive when it is called for. Her role in the story is the less of the three as Butch and Sundance take up the majority, but Ross ensures that she holds her own in the part.
An enjoyable experience, the evergreen delights of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid remain for all to view in a film coloured with laughs and eventual tragedy.
sonofabeach96 said:
One of favorites. Great movie. 😃
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s that perfect chemistry between Newman and Redford that truly makes this movie iconic.
LikeLiked by 1 person
sonofabeach96 said:
Absolutely! 😃
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
They had a real camaraderie and rapport with each other.
LikeLiked by 1 person
sonofabeach96 said:
Yeah, they sure did. And I’m a big Paul Newman fan. Love nearly every film he’s made.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Paul Newman for me had a cool edge and ease to him. His work had an effortless feel to it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
sonofabeach96 said:
Yep, exactly. He and Steve McQueen are of a similar ilk. 😃
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Both where born with a natural charisma.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thoughtsallsorts said:
Agreed. Great post on a great movie!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Thank you for saying that. It’s a movie that brims with humour as well as that underlying tragedy. You like spending time with the two desperadoes because they are so charismatic,
LikeLike
thoughtsallsorts said:
Exactly. They are absolutely wonderful. And, I’m not sure any other actors would have the same rapport.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
If you want to see chemistry at its best, here us the place to look. They spark off one another with humour and depth.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thoughtsallsorts said:
I must say, I enjoy them in The Sting too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
The Sting seems to have a lot of fans. Can’t believe I haven’t seen it!
LikeLike
thoughtsallsorts said:
It is really very, very clever. I did a post on it earlier this year – hope I can convince you. Just don’t watch it when you are tired – you need to be awake to keep track of the plot. https://thoughtsallsorts.wordpress.com/2016/02/26/31-days-of-oscars-the-sting/
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Thanks for the heads up and the link. Note to self, make sure to be fully alert.
LikeLike
thoughtsallsorts said:
Hmmm…maybe don’t read my post…it may give things away.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I think I’ll see the film and then read your review. Sounds like the best thing to do.
LikeLike
thoughtsallsorts said:
yip…I think so. Just re-read my post…let me just give you this snippet though: Let me just say that the sting of The Sting is one you don’t see coming. And, when you figure out what’s just happened, your smiling jaw will still be half-way open in both disbelief and wonder. At this point you’ll realise that you’ve been smiling right from the start, admiring this story where not a beat is out of place.And, you’ll be nodding in agreement that it is worthy of the multitude of Academy Award wins.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Ooh I like the sound of that. A surprise is always good to watch.
LikeLiked by 1 person
kmSalvatore said:
ohhh one of our favorites too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
You have exemplary taste. You can’t beat movies like this one!
LikeLiked by 1 person
kmSalvatore said:
and I guess you do as well Vman 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Well I do my best to be a film buff.
LikeLiked by 1 person
kmSalvatore said:
You sure do❣️
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Well it warms my heart to know you think that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I don’t normally like westerns, but I LOVED this movie! Everything worked in this movie, especially it’s amazing cast! Spot-on review as always Vinnie!😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Westerns are not usually my favourite types of movies, but this is an exception. The bracing humour and unfurling tragedy are beautifully executed. And what a pair Newman and Redford make!
LikeLiked by 1 person
By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I absolutely agree! And Newman and Redford have amazing chemistry in this. It always made me want to see them doing another movie together, but I don’t think they did, did they?
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I think they did make another movie together called The Sting. Though I haven’t seen it yet.
LikeLiked by 1 person
By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Oh good grief! How could I forget The Sting?! You’re going to love that one Vinnie!💁🏻
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I have heard nothing but sparkling things about that film. Must be a good one.
LikeLiked by 1 person
By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
It’s definitely your cup of tea!😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Well in that case, I’ll have to watch it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Your recommendations never disappoint.
LikeLiked by 1 person
beetleypete said:
I saw this around 1969 I think. I was about 17, and it was something very different, especially the great ending. I also saw The Sting four years later, but didn’t feel the same love. Watching Butch Cassidy again about five years ago, I actually found the ‘comedy’ quite irritating, and didn’t stay with it until the end. I suppose tastes change as we get older.
Cheers mate, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Yes I very much agree Pete, our tastes and interests change over time. You still got to admit that Newman and Redford share an iconic camaraderie.
LikeLike
vanbytheriver said:
A true classic, only superseded by the 2 of them in The Sting…also a masterpiece, and even more enjoyable.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Everyone mentions The Sting. Guess its high time to get off my ass and watch it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Paul S said:
The Sting is a thoroughly great film, and so engaging. How can you not be charmed by Redford and Newman ? I love all the character actors in it too, especially Robert Shaw as the ruthless Doyle Lonegan.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
The Sting is going to be watched by me at some point.
LikeLike
raistlin0903 said:
This is definitely a classic, which brings back a lot of great memories. Always nice to see a review like this. As for the Sting, it really is an amazing film. Think you will definitely enjoy it 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
The freewheeling style of this movie what makes it so wonderful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
New Journey said:
One of the great classics…..thanks for sharing….now I will need to see this one again…LOL
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Yep a classic indeed. Newman and Redford are an amazingly gifted team.
LikeLiked by 1 person
ninvoid99 said:
I have this film in my DVR as I hope to see it next year for another western marathon.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I hope you enjoy it.
LikeLike
KittNoir said:
Watched this for the first time recently and adored it 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I too only recently saw it and loved the good humour and charisma of it all. Truly a genial film.
LikeLiked by 1 person
KittNoir said:
It was so touching
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I found it to be very touching, you really feel drawn to the duo.
LikeLiked by 1 person
KittNoir said:
Redford so grumpy though 😁 Totally in love with Newman 💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Redford is supposed to be the serious one of the twosome, allowing him to bounce off the charm of Newman.
LikeLike
Keith said:
Great review Vinnie. I do like this one but I gotta say I’ve never really loved it. I think it’s the last act that loses me a bit. I do really enjoy that Redford/Newman chemistry.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I appreciate you commenting Keith. I’ve heard a few people say the same thing as you. You can’t beat that chemistry though.
LikeLike
Bluebird4UDaily said:
Oh my goodness look at how young the three of them look… I think back in the day, actors became life time friends while filming some movies together. Not like today when the chemistry just seems to be lacking. I think for some actors it was about the work and not so much showing up the other actors in the film.. Perhaps, this is why many movies these days lack something.. most times you just can’t put your finger on what that is … until you look past the film and see the lack of chemistry between actors.. Great Film here, one of my all time faves..
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
You can see in older movies genuine chemistry between so many actors.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Bluebird4UDaily said:
That is so true… acting school for the masses now a days should be made to watch the old movies, and be given a short history of its actors behaviors on and off screen.. Plus, back then the actors were told what to say and what to wear even outside of filming.. Was all written into the contracts.. Hollywood back then got away with murder so to speak and these days the younger actors don’t realize how good they have it…
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
There is something very glamorous about Old Hollywood but also something dangerous. An interesting dichotomy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
keepsmealive said:
My library has a copy of this and I always think one day I’ll sign it out and watch it, then for whatever silly reason I never do. Your post makes me want to get on it. Thanks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I’ve done my job if this makes you want to see the film. And believe me, I really need to catch up on some classics so you’re not alone there.
LikeLike
Rincewind said:
Such a brilliant script and you can just see how the brilliant cast is enjoying it. Such a great mix of comedy and drama.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
This movie struck gold with that good balance and the unmistakable repartee between Newman and Redford.
LikeLiked by 1 person
fragglerocking said:
I was so sad at the ending great review, great movie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Yes there is an unmistakable tragedy to the film, that is hinted at throughout but fully visualised at the end.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Rob said:
Great flick
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Indeed it is, still as charming as it was the first time I saw it a few years back.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Rob said:
The ending is a killer
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Oh most definitely, pretty moving too.
LikeLiked by 1 person