Robert Redford

The Profile

Robert Redford (born August 18, 1936, Santa Monica) is an American actor, director, and producer. He founded the Sundance Institute and Sundance Film Festival, and his directorial debut, Ordinary People (1980), won four Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director.

Founder of the Sundance Institute and Sundance Film Festival; active since 1959; Ordinary People (1980) won 4 Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director; received an Academy Honorary Award in 2002.

Four reviews trace Redford’s shift from star actor to director of thoughtful, politically engaged dramas. Ordinary People earns praise despite flaws and recalls its four Oscars. Lions for Lambs and The Company You Keep center on civic duty, media, and generational drift. The Conspirator stands out as a potent reflection on justice and nationhood. Overall tone: respectful, analytical, and pro-Redford.