Robert Redford stands as one of the greatest actor-directors and storytellers of all time.
Before I’m subjected to a list compiled by someone born in this century who’s probably only seen two of his films, let me present the definitive ranking of his greatest works, meticulously ordered using the Most Rigorous and Scientific Methods Available!
Dart Throws, Dice Rolls and Sheer Genius
When it comes to ranking Robert Redford’s greatest films, you might assume that a task of such magnitude would require consultation with the world’s foremost film critics and historians.
You’d be right. And wrong.
Because in addition to these sources, I’ve also employed some of the most advanced decision-making tools known to humanity—namely, a set of six-sided dice, a bucket full of movie names, and a dartboard.
The Result?
The most accurate ranking of Robert Redford movies you’ll ever find, guaranteed.
All the President’s Men (1976)
First up is the cinematic triumph where Redford, alongside Dustin Hoffman, takes on the role of Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward in a movie that could only be more tense if I’d rolled snake eyes during the decision process.
The film’s gripping portrayal of the Watergate scandal is an absolute must-see, combining historical significance with Redford’s compelling performance. If investigative journalism had a Mount Rushmore, this movie would be chiseling Redford’s face into the rock.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Landing a bullseye on the dartboard was this buddy western classic, where Redford teams up with Paul Newman to charm their way across the Old West.
Their chemistry is so electric that it might as well have powered the movie projector itself. With humor, action, and a dynamite script, this film remains timeless—a fact I confirmed after three solid hours of dice rolling.
The Sting (1973)
Another Redford-Newman collaboration, The Sting is as intricate and delightful as the algorithm I developed after talking for an hour and a half with Mr Know It All from Rocky and Bullwinkle.
This movie is a masterclass in the art of the con, filled with twists that keep you guessing until the last roll of the dice.
It’s no wonder the film takes a top spot—just like that lucky roll of doubles that pushed it up the list.
Three Days of the Condor (1975)
A tense political thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. Plus before Faye Dunaway was yelling about wire hangers she was helping Robert Redford stay alive.
Redford plays a CIA researcher who uncovers a conspiracy, and as he evades assassins, the movie showcases his knack for turning paranoia into pure entertainment.
The Natural (1984)
When I drew this title out of the bucket, it was like finding a golden ticket. Redford’s portrayal of Roy Hobbs, a baseball legend with a past, is nothing short of mythic.
The film is a celebration of the sport, but it’s also a tale of redemption, making it a natural fit for the top tier of this ranking.
The Candidate (1972)
This sharp political drama earned its spot with a combination of thoughtful commentary and sheer dartboard precision.
Redford’s portrayal of an idealistic candidate navigating the murky waters of politics in The Candidate feels just as relevant today as it did upon its release. The film remains a training tool for aspiring politicians, offering a masterclass in how to sacrifice integrity to win an election.
The Way We Were (1973)
On the surface, The Way We Were might seem like a typical romance, but it’s the sharp contrast between Redford’s laid-back, wise cracking charm and Barbra Streisand’s fiery political idealism that gives the film its depth.
Who knew that sarcasm and McCarthyism could blend to create such an enduring love story?
Legal Eagles (1986)
In this legal dramedy, Redford’s charm is on full display as he teams up with Debra Winger to solve an art fraud case.
The blend of courtroom drama, comedy, and romance makes Legal Eagles a truly fun watch. And let’s not forget—Debra Winger and Daryl Hannah in their prime? What else do you need to know!
Barefoot in the Park (1967)
This early Redford film is a light-hearted romp about newlyweds adjusting to married life in a cramped New York apartment.
The combination of Robert Redford’s chemistry with Jane Fonda, their impeccable comedic timing, and the eccentric characters in their apartment building make Barefoot in the Park a must-see for anyone who remembers living on the 6th floor without an elevator
The Electric Horseman (1979)
More movie Magic from Redford and Fonda. Redford plays a former rodeo star who takes a stand against corporate greed. Jane Fonda is the sharp ambitious TV reporter looking for the big story.
The beautiful Western landscapes and the mix of adventure and social commentary make this film a solid entry, with the algorithm giving it a boost for its blend of action and heart.
The Hot Rock (1972)
This caper comedy follows Redford as a thief with a penchant for failed heists.
Imagine the chemistry from Ocean’s 11, 12, 57, or however many of those they’ve made by now—now picture that same dynamic, but with Robert Redford and George Segal in The Hot Rock and without needing a dozen other people to pull it off.
Spy Game (2001)
In this high-stakes thriller, Redford plays a seasoned CIA operative on a mission to save his protege. The fact that he orchestrates an entire mission right in front of everyone’s eyes without them knowing it is pure magic.
If only they could’ve smuggled out some smartphones and laptops along with Brad Pitt from China, it would have made for an even more satisfying—and spectacular—finish.
Our Souls at Night (2017)
“Redford and Jane Fonda are pure magic on screen once again, this time in a story about love and companionship later in life.
Sure, it’s not quite as action-packed as his younger days, but let’s be honest—at this point, we’re just grateful no one broke a hip.
Up Close & Personal (1996)
Robert Redford and Michelle Pfeiffer break with modern tradition by playing a pair of reporters who—shockingly—try to report actual facts.
A true throwback to a time before news became just another reality show!
My Algorithm
This ranking, meticulously crafted using a blend of expert insights, pure chance, and highly unorthodox methods—including my own algorithm, which involved rolling five six-sided dice for an hour and a half, summing the results, and dividing by the number of brain cells lost in the process—is, without a doubt, the most accurate list of Robert Redford’s greatest films you’ll find.
If you disagree, just remember—the dartboard, dice, and bucket have spoken.
Who are we to question such an advanced system?
Just keep in mind, accuracy is not guaranteed, but entertainment certainly is.
