Robert Redford: 5 Awesome Performances And 5 That Sucked

1. Bob Woodward - All The President's Men (1976)

This might seem a predictable choice for number one, considering the other political choices that have appeared on this list. But of all the roles that have come to define him as the actor (as opposed to a director or a sex symbol), Bob Woodward most epitomises what Redford has come to represent: a man of conscience and principle, fighting against deep-rooted interests to tell stories that deserve more attention in an approachable, intelligent manner.

All The President's Men is the true story of Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein (Dustin Hoffman), two young reporters with The Washington Post who uncovere the Watergate conspiracy. Adapted from their accounts by William Goldman (him again), the film is a twisty and intriguing affair which is as much a conspiracy thriller as it is a tribute to the power of investigative journalism. The film is directed by Alan J. Pakula, who was Oscar-nominated for producing To Kill A Mockingbird.

All The President's Men remains a milestone of 1970s cinema which still holds up to close examination. Redford co-produced the film and meticulously researched both Woodward and the environment in which he worked, right down to ordering desks from the same company that supplied them to the Post.

His performance is just as meticulous but also has a great sense of impulse and instinct which lights up the screen, particularly during his shadowy encounters with Deep Throat. It's a performance of all-round brilliance which continues to define his career.

Having given Redford a clean bill of health, it's now time to dish the dirt on some of his worst performances...