That was one of Paul Newman's most famous lines. You remember ... Butch and Sundance are trapped on a cliff, surrounded by certain death, an armed super posse above them and rushing rapids below. Butch tries to convince Sundance that the only way out is to jump. Sundance reluctantly, shamefully admits he can't swim, and Butch laughs and convinces him with that line.This year marks the 40th anniversary of Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid, arguably the coolest movie about the coolest guys starring the two coolest actors. Newman and Redford get a lot of credit for the film's success, and they should. They're irresistable.
But the script is a gem, too. Written by William Goldman (above). One of my favorite authors of all time.
He's best known now as a screenwriter with two Oscars to his credit (All the President's Men and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid). He's also responsible for Chaplin starring R
obert Downey, Maverick starring Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster, and Misery with Kathy Bates.He's also done the screenplays based on his own novels: Marathon Man, Magic and The Princess Bride. Fun movies all, but the books are soooo much better. Especially, believe it or not, The Princess Bride. The book has a poignant subtext about family, yearning, and dreams that can break your heart. Next time you go to the library, give one of those a try.
And thanks to William Goldman for giving us these two enduring charmers.
What?!?!?! That same guy is responsible for all those awesome movies (and books)? I shall worship at his feet. That line is one of my favorites from any movie - but more likely because of the smirking handsome blue eyes that delivered it.
ReplyDelete