Set during the American Old West, a pair of charming outlaws known as Butch Cassidy (Paul Newman) and the Sundance Kid (Robert Redford), lead a gang of bandits, who have made quite the name for themselves robbing banks and trains across the country. When one of their robberies goes wrong, however, the pair find themselves pursued by a skilled and relentless set of lawmen, forcing the duo to head south to Bolivia, in search of a fresh start, eventually joined by Etta Place (Katharine Ross). A well-known American Western that is often held in high regard by many enthusiasts of the genre.

Director: George Roy Hill
Writers: William Goldman
Starring: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross

Directed by George Roy Hill, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid isn’t the most traditional classic Western of its time. Instead, the filmmakers blend action and comedy with moments of realisation and true sadness throughout the one-hundred-and-ten-minute runtime, creating a story that feels both light-hearted and emotional at the same time. The flick has been sitting on my watchlist for some time now, and after hearing of Robert Redford’s recent passing, it seemed only fitting to finally give this one a shot and appreciate one of Redford’s most defining acting performances.

One of the movie’s primary strengths would have to be the script put forward by the filmmakers. The dialogue is full of clever and quick-witted exchanges, with numerous moments of humour that feel naturally placed within the story and characters on display. The moments of comedy rarely feel forced, instead, they help to humanise the main characters and provide balance to the flick’s overarching tone. The chemistry displayed by the two lead actors while delivering the dialogue is equally impressive, adding to the authenticity and overall charm that makes the film so enjoyable to watch.

In terms of the cinematography, the first half of the picture beautifully showcases the wide, empty landscapes of Colorado and Utah in the United States, managing to capture both the beauty and loneliness of the open fields. The vast scenery not only helps set the atmosphere, but it also reflects the sense of freedom and isolation felt by the two outlaws. When the story later shifts from its American backdrop to South America, the filmmakers utilise Mexico as a stand-in for Bolivia, bringing a more rustic feel to the screen.

As previously touched upon, Paul Newman and Robert Redford adopt the roles of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, respectively, delivering an effortless amount of charisma and making each character their own in the process. Elsewhere, support was primarily provided by Katharine Ross, portraying Etta Place, a school teacher that added a softer and more elegant layer to the story.

All in all, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid provides the viewer with a great amount of entertainment and intrigue, at times coming across as lighter in tone and often playful compared to others of this era, but that’s exactly what makes it memorable in its own unique way. Focusing on friendship and loyalty, while featuring sharp dialogue and two iconic leading performances, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is an enjoyable and timeless flick, that first the big screen over fifty years ago. Well worth a watch.

“Kid, the next time I say, let’s go someplace like Bolivia, let’s go someplace like Bolivia…”

Butch Cassidy – Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid