James Salter and Robert Redford on DOWNHILL RACER

In June, we lost the inimitable American writer James Salter. The author, one of the great novelists of the twentieth century, also had a career as a Hollywood screenwriter-which included penning Michael Ritchie’s 1969 Olympic skiing drama Downhill Racer. Our edition of the film, released on Blu-ray earlier this month, includes a piece featuring Robert Redford, the film's star, and Salter, who was handpicked by Redford to write the screenplay. In the clip below, watch Redford discuss what attracted him to Salter’s work, and hear the writer talk about what drew him to cinema.

[@philipbarton2634]

Excellent movie for those who do not require explosions and car chases to keep their less developed mind entertained. Subtle, minimalist, a great portrayal of how quiet the dark side of humanity can be. Reford was superb. My favorite scene is when he is at his dads house and puts a stale cracker in his mouth. Contrast with some creatin like a Vin Diesel having to thump on someone to get his point across. That scene was absolutely tragic-so little action and dialogue and yet just nailed the cause of so much tragedy in the world today through pure acting skill and great writing. 5 stars.

[@herbfelcher4634]

Singular script, great movie.

[@SpiritMQ]

True. Love it too...

[@31acruz]

Script and movie are stupid and pointless. Here is the script: Bad boy with bad relationship with his Dad goes to Europe to ski, meets girls has a fight with her over something stupid and movie ends. Did you like it? a complete waste of time.

[@melissapritt7318]

Disagree.