Quartile rating: 7/10 · 1 rating
The true story of Forrest Tucker, from his audacious escape from San Quentin at the age of 70 to an unprecedented string of heists that confounded authorities and enchanted the public. Wrapped up in the pursuit are a detective, who becomes captivated with Forrest’s commitment to his craft, and a woman, who loves him in spite of his chosen profession.
The Old Man & the Gun is a gentle, autumnal crime film elevated almost entirely by Robert Redford's effortlessly charming performance — widely read as a graceful farewell to acting. The acting is a clear standout: Redford, Sissy Spacek, and Casey Affleck all bring warmth and credibility that exceed the material. The plot is pleasant but episodic and thin, functioning more as a mood piece than a tightly constructed narrative. Cinematography echoes a nostalgic 1970s grain that suits the tone but isn't particularly ambitious. Novelty is modest — the film occupies a well-worn heist-drama space, though its unhurried elegiac register and centering of an elderly protagonist give it some distinction. The ending is fitting but quiet, leaving audiences satisfied without a strong dramatic payoff.