Pros: Hackman, European Locations, Sparv, Racing action shots
Cons: No real plot, Script, Boring Lead character, Pointless
Plot: Redford stars as a David Chapellett, a ruthless, self-absorbed skier out to win Olympic Gold. Gene Hackman is his Coach.
This movie was Redford's baby and he spent years getting it produced. I wonder why. "Downhill Racer" has no plot or point & its a character study of a boring character. Chappellet (Redford) is not so much "ruthless" as tight-lipped, inarticulate and dull. He sets a record for fewest words per minute of screen time and Redford's low-key style makes it worse. Where was Kirk Douglas when you need him?
Nor do we get any back-story of Redford's character. We get one visit to Chappellett's Dad and hometown - but its unconvincingly shown in the usual, phony, Hollywood manner.
However, the European locations shots are attractive as is Sparv who looks beautiful and matches up well with Redford. She's interesting on screen - as is Hackman. Neither are given enough lines. The direction is good, especially the 1st person downhill racing, but there are too many shots of spectators & skiers whizzing by or just standing around.
Conclusion: A movie dying to be remade. 21st camera techniques could make the skiing even more exciting and a new script wouldn't hurt. Recommended only for Redford and skiing fans. Rating **1/2
This movie was Redford's baby and he spent years getting it produced. I wonder why. "Downhill Racer" has no plot or point & its a character study of a boring character. Chappellet (Redford) is not so much "ruthless" as tight-lipped, inarticulate and dull. He sets a record for fewest words per minute of screen time and Redford's low-key style makes it worse. Where was Kirk Douglas when you need him?
Nor do we get any back-story of Redford's character. We get one visit to Chappellett's Dad and hometown - but its unconvincingly shown in the usual, phony, Hollywood manner.
However, the European locations shots are attractive as is Sparv who looks beautiful and matches up well with Redford. She's interesting on screen - as is Hackman. Neither are given enough lines. The direction is good, especially the 1st person downhill racing, but there are too many shots of spectators & skiers whizzing by or just standing around.
Conclusion: A movie dying to be remade. 21st camera techniques could make the skiing even more exciting and a new script wouldn't hurt. Recommended only for Redford and skiing fans. Rating **1/2
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