The Old Man & the Gun (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction: A Charming Tribute to Classic Cinema
The Old Man & the Gun (2018), directed by David Lowery, is a delightful and heartfelt film that showcases Robert Redford in what he has described as his final acting role. Based on the true story of Forrest Tucker, a notorious bank robber and escape artist, the film is an ode to Redford’s legendary career and a nostalgic throwback to the charm and style of 1970s cinema. With a breezy tone, sharp dialogue, and charismatic performances, The Old Man & the Gun is a slow-paced but thoroughly enjoyable movie about a man who finds joy in his life of crime, despite the inevitable consequences.
In this review, we’ll break down the plot, explore the cast’s performances, and discuss where to stream or rent The Old Man & the Gun online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: The Art of a Gentle Heist
The film is based on a 2003 New Yorker article by David Grann that chronicled the life of Forrest Tucker, a career criminal who was famous for his charm and his ability to escape from prison multiple times. The Old Man & the Gun opens with Tucker (Robert Redford) in his later years, living life as an aging but still active bank robber. Unlike most criminals, Tucker doesn’t use violence or intimidation; he simply walks into banks, politely asks for money, and walks out with a smile. His smooth-talking, genteel approach earns him the nickname “the gentleman bandit.”
Tucker’s exploits attract the attention of John Hunt (Casey Affleck), a weary, low-key detective who becomes fascinated by the elusive robber’s methods. As Hunt gets closer to capturing Tucker, the film juxtaposes the cat-and-mouse dynamic between the two men with Tucker’s budding romance with a woman named Jewel (Sissy Spacek). Jewel, a widow who lives quietly on a small farm, offers Tucker the opportunity to settle down and live an honest life—but his love for the thrill of the heist proves difficult to shake.
Robert Redford: A Fitting Farewell to a Legendary Career
At the heart of The Old Man & the Gun is Robert Redford’s performance as Forrest Tucker, a role that feels tailor-made for the veteran actor. Redford, known for his roles in classics like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973), embodies the charm, wit, and rugged charisma of a man who refuses to let age or the law dictate his life. Tucker is portrayed as a man who doesn’t steal out of desperation but out of passion—he simply enjoys the act of robbing banks and the thrill of evading capture.
Redford’s understated yet magnetic performance gives the film its emotional core. There’s a sense of melancholy beneath Tucker’s charming smile, as the character grapples with the inevitability of old age and the passing of time. Redford plays the role with grace, never overplaying Tucker’s emotions, but instead letting the character’s love for life—and crime—speak through his actions.
Sissy Spacek and Casey Affleck: Stellar Supporting Cast
Sissy Spacek delivers a wonderful performance as Jewel, the woman who brings out Tucker’s softer side. Her chemistry with Redford is effortless, and their scenes together are filled with warmth and quiet humor. Jewel is no fool—she knows Tucker’s true nature but chooses to accept him for who he is. Spacek’s portrayal adds depth to the film’s romantic subplot, grounding the story in emotional realism.
Casey Affleck plays John Hunt, the detective who becomes obsessed with catching Tucker. Affleck’s performance is refreshingly low-key, bringing a weary, world-weary energy to the role. Hunt is not the typical hard-nosed detective; he’s a man dealing with the mundane frustrations of his job, but he becomes energized by the challenge Tucker presents. The dynamic between Affleck and Redford adds an extra layer of intrigue to the film, as Hunt grows to admire the gentleman bandit even as he tries to bring him to justice.
Themes: Aging, Freedom, and the Joy of the Chase
One of the central themes of The Old Man & the Gun is the tension between aging and freedom. Forrest Tucker is an elderly man, but he refuses to settle into a quiet retirement. Instead, he continues to rob banks, not out of necessity, but because he loves the game. The film subtly explores the idea of aging with dignity and independence, as Tucker clings to the one thing that makes him feel alive: the thrill of the heist.
Another theme is the idea of living life on one’s own terms. Tucker is a criminal, but he’s not a villain. He’s polite, considerate, and never harms anyone in his crimes. He’s simply following his passion, even if it’s at odds with the law. This approach to life—living with joy, even if it means breaking the rules—sets Tucker apart from more traditional antiheroes. The film asks whether it’s better to live a conventional, law-abiding life or to pursue happiness in whatever way one can.
David Lowery’s Direction: A Gentle, Nostalgic Touch
David Lowery, known for films like A Ghost Story (2017) and Ain’t Them Bodies Saints (2013), brings a gentle, nostalgic touch to The Old Man & the Gun. The film is shot on 16mm film, giving it a warm, grainy look that evokes the aesthetic of classic 1970s cinema. Lowery’s direction is understated, allowing the performances and the story to take center stage. The pacing is slow and deliberate, mirroring Tucker’s unhurried approach to life and crime.
Lowery avoids sensationalizing the bank heists or the police pursuit, focusing instead on the human connections and the emotional stakes of the characters. The film’s tone is light, with moments of humor and charm, but there’s an underlying sadness to Tucker’s journey as he faces the reality of growing older and the limitations that come with it.
Critical Reception: A Gentle, Well-Loved Farewell
The Old Man & the Gun received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics, particularly praising Robert Redford’s final performance. The film was lauded for its lighthearted tone, nostalgic feel, and the chemistry between the leads. While some critics noted that the film’s slow pace might not appeal to everyone, most appreciated its meditative approach to storytelling.
Many reviewers saw The Old Man & the Gun as a fitting swan song for Redford, a beloved icon of American cinema. His portrayal of Forrest Tucker—a man who lived life on his own terms—mirrored the career of Redford himself, a star who has always followed his passions, both in front of and behind the camera.
Where to Watch The Old Man & the Gun Online in the U.S.
As of 2023, The Old Man & the Gun is available on a variety of streaming platforms, as well as for rental and purchase.
1. Streaming Services: Subscription-Based Platforms
- Hulu: The Old Man & the Gun is available to stream on Hulu with a subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video: Subscribers to Amazon Prime can stream the film at no additional cost.
2. Rental Options: Pay-Per-View Platforms
For those who prefer to rent the film, The Old Man & the Gun is available on several pay-per-view platforms:
- Apple TV: Rent for $3.99 in HD.
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent for $3.99 in HD.
- Google Play Movies: Rent for $3.99 in HD.
3. Purchase Options: Own the Film
For viewers who want to own a digital copy, the movie is available for purchase:
- Apple TV: Purchase for $14.99.
- Amazon Prime Video: Own the movie for $14.99 in HD.
- Google Play Movies: Purchase for $14.99.
Conclusion: A Charming Farewell to Robert Redford
The Old Man & the Gun is a fitting and charming farewell to one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors. Robert Redford’s portrayal of Forrest Tucker is a masterclass in understated charisma, and the film’s gentle, nostalgic tone makes it a pleasure to watch. With strong supporting performances from Sissy Spacek and Casey Affleck, the film is a meditation on aging, freedom, and living life on your own terms.
Available for streaming, rental, or purchase, The Old Man & the Gun is a must-watch for fans of Robert Redford, as well as anyone who appreciates character-driven stories that celebrate the joy of the chase, no matter the consequences.
