Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid: A Timeless Classic of the Western Genre
Considered a cinematic touchstone within the Western genre, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid remains a highly celebrated film. Boasting an impressive 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes, this movie consistently appears on various lists of the greatest Westerns ever made. Its enduring appeal stems from its fresh take on the genre, blending action, humor, and memorable characters.
An Unconventional Western Buddy Film
Released in September 1969, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid transcends the typical American Western to become an exceptional buddy film. Penned by William Goldman and helmed by director George Roy Hill, the narrative, while loosely grounded in historical events, recounts the exploits of Wild West outlaws Robert LeRoy Parker, known as Butch Cassidy (portrayed by Paul Newman), and his close companion, Harry Longabaugh, alias the Sundance Kid (played by Robert Redford).
Following a string of train robberies, the infamous duo find themselves pursued by a determined US posse. Accompanied by Sundance’s lover, Etta Place (Katharine Ross), they embark on a desperate flight to Bolivia in an attempt to evade capture.
Iconic Soundtrack and Surprising Hit Song
The movie gifted audiences one of the most recognizable and frequently quoted songs ever produced: Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head. Despite initial skepticism regarding its inclusion in a Western film – with even lead actor Robert Redford expressing doubts – director George Roy Hill defended the choice. Redford later admitted about the track: “When the film premiered, I was very critical: How did the song complement the movie? There was no rainfall. It struck me as a foolish idea at the time. How mistaken I proved to be, as it became a massive success.”
Box Office Phenomenon and Critical Success
During its debut week, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid grossed $82,625 from just two cinemas in New York City. Its popularity rapidly grew, achieving blockbuster status and dominating the box office charts in both the US and Canada for two consecutive weeks. By the end of 1969, it had accumulated $15 million in rentals across North America, signaling its widespread appeal.
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Records from Fox indicated that the film needed $13.85 million in rentals to reach profitability. By December 11, 1970, it had already generated $36.83 million, yielding substantial profits for the studio. The film ultimately amassed $45.95 million in rentals and achieved a final US gross exceeding $100 million, cementing its position as the highest-grossing film of 1969.
Academy Award Recognition and Enduring Praise
Beyond its commercial triumph, the film garnered significant critical acclaim, securing four Academy Awards, including Best Story and Screenplay – Based on Material Not Previously Published or Produced, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score for a Motion Picture (Not a Musical), and Best Original Song for the Picture.
Film critics lauded the movie, with one review noting: “It possesses a lighthearted and charming quality, a contemporary, 1960s approach to a genre that had become somewhat stale.” Another critic echoed these sentiments, writing: “Flawless performances, a script rich in both nostalgia and relevant insight, and anti-heroes that are impossible not to admire: it is hardly surprising that the consistently re-watchable Butch And Sundance was once proclaimed the most universally liked film ever created.”
Audience Acclaim and Lasting Impact
Viewer feedback for the film was equally enthusiastic, with one audience member remarking: “A magnificent film in every respect. The cinematography, characters, narrative, and soundtrack are all exceptional. I cannot recommend it highly enough.”
Another viewer commented: “An absolute classic, even if it seemingly shouldn’t be, owing to that peculiar, anachronistic Burt Bacharach song and the sepia-toned postcards from the South American voyage. It demonstrates, in a way, that a brilliant script and characters can support almost anything… and the movie will still resonate.”
One reviewer described it as a “non-stop rollercoaster of emotions,” stating: “One of the most enjoyable Westerns I have seen, and a bromance that enhances the viewing experience. It is a constant barrage of feelings and adventures in the lives of two outlaws, largely due to the outstanding performances of the two lead actors. A beautifully written and filmed movie.”
The reviewer further added: “I recommend this to anyone seeking a couple of hours of compelling characters, stunning visuals, and an engaging story. I would rate it a 9/10 for a Western; some aspects of the film were not entirely to my taste, but they detract nothing from the overall cinematic excellence on display.”
Where to Watch Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
- For UK Viewers: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is available for streaming on Disney+.
- For US Viewers: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is available for rental on Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video for $3.99.