"The Old Man & the Gun" feels like it was constructed for Robert Redford to not only go out on a high note, but also do so in a way the epitomizes his career and most iconic roles. It could've been a bank heist movie tailored to empty the pockets of the retirement crowd with its based-on-a-true-story and remarkable foursome of Redford, Tom Waits, Danny Glover and Sissy Spacek. But it turns into something unexpectedly poetic (unless you are familiar with David Lowery's work, in which case that's no surprise at all).
Lowery's film is more beautifully shot than it is fun, but there's a certain delight and whimsy to it, just of a softer kind. And he certainly makes Redford look like a golden god on screen. Pitting him opposite Casey Affleck, both actors are doing what they do best, and Lowery's script has their characters bouncing off of each other in unexpected ways. The premise suggests entertainment over craftsmanship, but those who let go of bank heist film expectations will surely take to Lowery's artistic vision.
Lowery's film is more beautifully shot than it is fun, but there's a certain delight and whimsy to it, just of a softer kind. And he certainly makes Redford look like a golden god on screen. Pitting him opposite Casey Affleck, both actors are doing what they do best, and Lowery's script has their characters bouncing off of each other in unexpected ways. The premise suggests entertainment over craftsmanship, but those who let go of bank heist film expectations will surely take to Lowery's artistic vision.