Few men are granted the honor of being called the godfather of a movement but Robert Redford has earned for himself the moniker of Godfather of Indie Film. He is, after all, a co-founder of the Sundance Film Festival, the largest and most prestigious independent film festival in the U.S His vigorous support for the Sundance Institute, considered as the independent film movement’s spiritual home, has certainly promoted general public awareness about the industry while also encouraging greater creativity among directors, producers and actors.
But Redford is more than just the Godfather of Indie Film. He is also a well-known and well-respected actor, director and producer as well as entrepreneur, environmentalist and philanthropist. His appearances as an actor span all three media – television, theatre, and film – while his directing capabilities have been recognized via two Academy Awards.
He is also a noted political activist with a wide range of advocacy. He continues to be active in environmentalism, LGBT rights, and Native American rights as well as culture and the arts.
Redford has several awards to his name including the Audubon Medal from the National Audubon Society; the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy Awards; and the the National Medal of Arts. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the arts scene including the Kennedy Center Honors, the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, and the New Mexico Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts.
Redford is, indeed, not just another pretty face!
The Entrepreneur Review 