A Forgotten Gem of the Sports Genre Holds Up Decades Later

Robert Redford, who passed away at the age of 89, is best known for iconic films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men. However, one of his most overlooked yet groundbreaking contributions to cinema lies in the sports genre. While The Natural is often cited as his sports film, it is Downhill Racer, released in 1969, that stands as a true masterpiece of the genre.

Directed by Michael Ritchie and written by James Salter, Downhill Racer follows David Chappellet, a reclusive ski prodigy from Colorado, as he navigates the high-stakes world of European alpine racing. The film, a passion project for Redford, captures the raw intensity and isolation of competitive sports with remarkable authenticity. Shot on location in Switzerland, Austria, and France, the film features real snow, real skiers, and a level of detail that few sports films have matched. This commitment to realism was a radical departure from the stylized, often exaggerated portrayals of sports in Hollywood at the time.

What sets Downhill Racer apart is its innovative use of point-of-view cinematography, executed on skis by Joe Jay Jalbert, who also doubled for Redford. The film’s focus on the sport itself—its risks, rewards, and the quiet determination of its protagonist—creates a narrative that feels both timeless and deeply personal. It avoids the melodrama that often plagues the genre, offering instead a subtle, human portrait of a flawed yet determined athlete.

The film’s protagonist, played by Redford, is a brooding, enigmatic figure who struggles with the pressure of competition and the isolation that comes with being a top athlete. His interactions with his coach, Eugene Claire, played with restraint by Gene Hackman, are understated but powerful. Hackman’s climactic speech at the Olympics—just four words: “Chappellet, you can win”—is a masterclass in minimalism and emotional impact.

Though the film’s influence is often overshadowed by later sports classics like Rocky, Downhill Racer remains a quiet triumph. Its story of a misunderstood talent, a humbling defeat, and a final chance at redemption continues to resonate, proving that Redford’s legacy in cinema extends far beyond his most celebrated roles.

The film’s production also marked a significant moment in Redford’s career. It was originally intended to be directed by Roman Polanski, who had to step down due to his involvement in Rosemary’s Baby. Michael Ritchie, who would later direct The Bad News Bears and The Candidate, took over and brought a documentary-like realism to the film, which was a radical departure from the stylized sports films of the time.

In addition to its cinematic achievements, Downhill Racer also had a lasting impact on the portrayal of sports in film. It introduced a more introspective and less heroic view of athletes, focusing on their vulnerabilities and the psychological toll of competition. This approach has since influenced a new wave of sports dramas that emphasize character development over spectacle.

Today, Downhill Racer remains a cult favorite among sports film enthusiasts and is often cited as a precursor to the modern sports drama. Its blend of real-world detail, emotional depth, and athletic spectacle makes it a standout in Redford’s filmography—and a testament to his enduring influence on both cinema and the sports genre. The film is now available on multiple streaming platforms, offering a chance for a new generation of viewers to experience its brilliance.