Robert Redford
Full Name and Common Aliases
Charles Robert Redford Jr., commonly known as Robert Redford, is a name synonymous with Hollywood excellence and environmental advocacy. Often referred to simply as "Bob" by those close to him, Redford has carved out a legacy that transcends the silver screen.
Birth and Death Dates
Robert Redford was born on August 18, 1936. As of the latest available information, he is still alive and continues to influence the worlds of film and environmental activism.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Robert Redford is an American actor, director, producer, and environmentalist. His multifaceted career has seen him excel in various roles within the entertainment industry, while his passion for the environment has made him a prominent advocate for conservation efforts.
Early Life and Background
Born in Santa Monica, California, Redford grew up in a working-class family. His father, Charles Robert Redford Sr., was a milkman-turned-accountant, and his mother, Martha Hart, was a homemaker. Redford's early life was marked by a love for sports and the outdoors, which would later influence his environmental activism. He attended Van Nuys High School, where he was a classmate of baseball legend Don Drysdale. After high school, Redford briefly attended the University of Colorado Boulder, but his academic pursuits were cut short due to his penchant for adventure and a growing interest in the arts.
Major Accomplishments
Robert Redford's career in Hollywood began in the late 1950s with television appearances, but it was his role in the 1969 film "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" that catapulted him to stardom. His portrayal of the charming outlaw Sundance Kid, alongside Paul Newman, remains iconic. Redford's career continued to flourish with critically acclaimed performances in films such as "The Sting" (1973), "All the President's Men" (1976), and "The Natural" (1984).
In addition to his acting prowess, Redford is an accomplished director. His directorial debut, "Ordinary People" (1980), won four Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Picture. This success established him as a formidable force behind the camera.
Notable Works or Actions
Beyond his film career, Redford is renowned for founding the Sundance Film Festival in 1981. Originally conceived as a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work, Sundance has grown into one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It has been instrumental in launching the careers of numerous filmmakers and actors, further cementing Redford's impact on the industry.
Redford's commitment to environmental causes is another significant aspect of his legacy. He has been a vocal advocate for conservation and renewable energy, using his celebrity status to raise awareness about climate change and environmental protection. His efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.
Impact and Legacy
Robert Redford's impact on both the film industry and environmental activism is profound. As an actor and director, he has contributed to some of the most memorable films in cinematic history. His work with the Sundance Film Festival has transformed the landscape of independent cinema, providing a vital platform for diverse voices and innovative storytelling.
In the realm of environmentalism, Redford's advocacy has inspired countless individuals to take action in their communities. His dedication to preserving the natural world reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of individual and collective action to effect change.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert Redford is widely quoted and remembered for his eloquence and insight, both in his film roles and his public statements. His ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and passion has resonated with audiences worldwide. Quotes from his films often capture the essence of his characters' struggles and triumphs, while his public statements on environmental issues reflect a profound commitment to making the world a better place.
Redford's legacy is one of artistic excellence and unwavering dedication to causes greater than himself. His words continue to inspire and challenge, making him a figure whose influence will endure for generations to come.
Quotes by Robert Redford
Robert Redford's insights on:
I had a mild case of polio - not enough to put me in an iron lung, but enough to keep me bedridden for weeks. As I came out of it, my mom wanted to do something for me. She realized that, growing up in the city, I'd missed out on a lot of nature.
I haven't seen 'The Revenant,' but I'm sure it was great because it has a lot of talent involved.
Going to Santa Fe is like going to Greece. It's not that special compared to other areas. The pinon pines are no different than pinon pines elsewhere. But there has been culture there longer than in most places, and you feel it.
What I would like to do is a thriller. I've been wanting to do that for a long time, but one that was not at all dependent on special effects. Just purely psychological, but will scare the hell out of you. That's what I would like to do. I have not found it yet.
For 'Jeremiah Johnson,' nobody wanted to make that film. I went to Sydney Pollack, and I said, 'Sydney, I live in the mountains, and I would like to make a film about a person that had to exist in the mountains and survive in the mountains.'
I didn't know the technical language of filmmaking, so I said, 'OK, I'm going to do my own storyboard,' because I had to explain to the crew and the technical people what I wanted.
I wanted to get out of this country and experience different ways of seeing the world. So I went to Europe, but I went as an artist. I was increasing my skill set and exploring storytelling through painting.