Judd Hirsch Reflects on Collaborating with Robert Redford: ‘We Joined Him on a Journey of Ideas’

Judd Hirsch wasn’t the obvious choice for the role of Dr. Tyrone Berger in Robert Redford’s Ordinary People, which won the Best Picture Oscar in 1980. The film tells a heart-wrenching story about a family grappling with the aftermath of a tragic loss. Amidst it all, Hirsch’s performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

In a chat with Rolling Stone, Hirsch reflected on working with Redford. He admired Redford’s dedication to authenticity. “He wanted true moments, no acting,” Hirsch explained. Redford intended to make the performances feel genuine, stripping away anything that seemed too rehearsed. This approach created a more realistic atmosphere on set.

Judd also shared his thoughts on Redford’s lack of desire to direct. He focused on understanding the story rather than trying to control every aspect. “He let actors do their job,” Hirsch noted, emphasizing the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

Exploring the character further, Hirsch realized that Dr. Berger had his challenges. The character needed to be somewhat aloof and not overly friendly, which showed the realities of therapy. Hirsch aimed to portray someone who was not instantly likable but instead realistic and relatable.

Interestingly, Redford’s personal experience with therapy shaped his vision for the film. He described his own children’s struggles with therapy, revealing a skepticism about its effectiveness. This insight helped deepen the narrative, presenting therapy as a complex journey rather than a straightforward solution.

Hirsch praised Redford’s passion for the story, believing it changed perceptions about psychology at that time. While Redford had never won an Oscar before, his directorial efforts in Ordinary People transformed his career and left a lasting impact on Hollywood.

Reflecting on Redford’s legacy, Hirsch acknowledged how the actor-director had connected with audiences over the years. He’d always been a champion for thoughtful films, making viewers feel involved in the stories he told.

As we think about the evolution of cinema and storytelling, Redford’s approach to film mirrors a significant shift. Many contemporary films aim for that same authenticity, often drawing on personal experiences to create relatable characters and narratives. Today, viewers appreciate stories that resonate on a deeper level, much like Ordinary People did in its time.

Hirsch’s memories of Redford serve as a reminder of the importance of honest storytelling in film. It’s about more than just entertainment; it’s about connection and understanding the human experience. This sentiment continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

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Judd Hirsch,Robert Redford