Robert Redford through Hell and High Water in "All is Lost"

The performance of the year belongs to Robert Redford as a lone sailor fighting for survival in "All is Lost."  It's mesmerizing and profound and one for the ages - not just because of his acting skills.  It's amazing that Mr. Redford even agreed to this role - the boldest choice any actor has made in years.

"All is Lost" might be the only feature length movie I've ever seen with one - and ONLY one - actor in the entire film.  No gimmicks, no soliloquies, and no volley balls.  It's pure action, reaction, choice and consequence.  The fundamentals of acting, and the essence of screenwriting.  Credit goes to writer-director J. C. Chandor.

It's a master class in how to write visual action.  Mr. Chandor solves the issue of how to make one character fascinating and transparent without dialogue of any sort.  Even more impressive is that "All is Lost" is only his second film.  And 2011's "Margin Call" was completely different - an ensemble piece filled with words, talk, and theatrical staging.

Watch and see all the actions that Mr. Redford's character performs.  He fixes his boat, he repairs his radio, he learns celestial navigation, and he fights all the obstacles thrown at him.  He makes high-pressure decisions:  what to repair, what to save, how to survive.  Each endeavor is expertly written to maintain interest and tension, then skillfully enacted by a captivating figure.  The screenwriting and acting combination should be studied by all aspiring filmmakers.

Ultimately, what is this about?  Survival, perseverance and hope?  On the surface, yes.  But the casting of the All-American Golden Boy of the West says something more.  Any living actor could have played this role, young or old, American or international.  Mr. Redford's presence transforms it into a statement on masculinity.  Forget the young turks, this is a job for a real man.  He's a different sort of American than we frequently see in contemporary movies.  A father or grandfather with strength, skill, and integrity.  The Analog Man is not the obsolete man.  He's better equipped to survive, lead and rebuild.  Sure he's rich and well-provided, but he's no fat cat.  His privilege was earned with hard work.  Against the odds, against all hope, he makes sound choices and pulls off every physical action.  His character has no name except in the credits.  And it's most fitting:  he's "Our Man."

It's also worth noting the excellent song in the end credits.  Written by Alex Ebert, "Amen" is a haunting composition (listen here).  It's the perfect backdrop to stay and ponder the images and themes of the previous 100 minutes.

Costume display from the Arclight Theater in Hollywood