What makes Robert Redford's 'Downhill Racer' a pioneering film?

'Downhill Racer' is considered pioneering for its innovative documentary-style camera work during ski racing scenes and its impact on the American sports movie genre.

How did 'Downhill Racer' influence Robert Redford's career?

Redford viewed 'Downhill Racer' as a transitional moment where he moved away from being a traditional Hollywood movie star to embrace auteurship.

What was the box office performance of 'Downhill Racer'?

Released in 1969, 'Downhill Racer' grossed $1.9 million, which equates to $16 million in today's currency.

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Ski Movie Pioneer: 'Downhill Racer' Still Thrills

1 Feb

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Summary

Film captured pioneering documentary-style ski racing footage.
Redford viewed 'Downhill Racer' as a pivotal auteur moment.
The 1969 film grossed $1.9 million, $16 million today.

Ski Movie Pioneer: 'Downhill Racer' Still Thrills

Released on October 28, 1969, Robert Redford's "Downhill Racer" is lauded as a seminal film in the American sports genre, distinguished by its innovative use of cameras mounted on skiers during racing sequences.

Co-written by Redford and Peter Salter, the film centered on an arrogant skier, David Chappellet, and his conflicts within the U.S. Ski Team. Director Michael Ritchie, impressed by Redford's vision, helmed the project, casting Gene Hackman as the coach.

Filmed in Switzerland, Austria, and France, with additional scenes shot at what is now Sundance in Utah, the movie captured the intensity of competitive skiing. Its documentary-style approach to filming sports action is still considered exhilarating.