Detailed Summary
The Early Heists
Butch Cassidy (Paul Newman) and the Sundance Kid (Robert Redford) are the leaders of the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, a notorious group of outlaws in the late 1800s. The film begins with the duo successfully robbing a train, showcasing their charisma and skill. They plan another robbery, but their gang members express doubts about Butch’s leadership, leading to a brief conflict resolved by Butch’s wit.
The Superposse Pursuit
After a series of successful heists, Butch and Sundance become the targets of a relentless posse led by a skilled lawman. The pursuit is relentless, forcing Butch and Sundance to use every trick in their book to evade capture. They flee through various terrains, including deserts and mountains, but the posse remains on their tail.
Bolivia Bound
Desperate to escape, Butch and Sundance decide to flee to Bolivia with Sundance’s lover, Etta Place (Katharine Ross). They believe Bolivia will be a land of new opportunities and fewer lawmen. The trio arrives in Bolivia and initially struggles with the language and culture. However, they soon return to their old ways, robbing banks and living on the run.
The Final Stand
Their exploits in Bolivia draw the attention of local law enforcement and the Pinkerton detectives from the United States. As their situation becomes increasingly precarious, Butch and Sundance plan one last heist. The film culminates in a dramatic shootout with the Bolivian army, where the duo, cornered and wounded, decide to go out fighting. The final scene freezes on Butch and Sundance as they charge into the gunfire, their fate left ambiguous but heavily implied.
Movie Ending
The movie ends with Butch and Sundance surrounded by the Bolivian army. As they prepare to make a desperate run for it, the screen freezes on them charging out, guns blazing, while the sound of gunfire continues. This iconic ending leaves their ultimate fate to the audience’s imagination but suggests a heroic, if tragic, end.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a Western with elements of buddy comedy and adventure, known for its witty dialogue, charismatic performances, and blend of action and humor.
Cast
- Paul Newman as Butch Cassidy
- Robert Redford as The Sundance Kid
- Katharine Ross as Etta Place
- Strother Martin as Percy Garris
- Henry Jones as Bike Salesman
- Jeff Corey as Sheriff Ray Bledsoe
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Burt Bacharach. The film features the iconic song “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” performed by B.J. Thomas, which became a significant hit.
Filming Locations
- Durango, Mexico: Many of the film’s outdoor scenes, including the Bolivian sequences, were shot here, providing a rugged and authentic backdrop.
- Zion National Park, Utah: Used for some of the scenic chase sequences.
- Redford, Utah: Named after Robert Redford, who later founded the Sundance Film Festival in this area.
These locations were crucial in creating the film’s expansive and varied landscapes.
Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Won Best Original Screenplay (William Goldman), Best Cinematography, Best Original Score (Burt Bacharach), and Best Original Song (“Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head”).
- BAFTA Awards: Won Best Picture, Best Direction, and Best Actor (Robert Redford).
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Actor (Paul Newman), and Best Original Score.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Paul Newman and Robert Redford formed a lifelong friendship during filming.
- William Goldman’s screenplay was originally titled “The Sundance Kid and Butch Cassidy.”
- Director George Roy Hill insisted on casting Paul Newman and Robert Redford, despite studio pressure to choose bigger names.
Inspirations and References
- Historical Figures: The film is loosely based on the real-life outlaws Robert LeRoy Parker (Butch Cassidy) and Harry Alonzo Longabaugh (The Sundance Kid).
- Western Genre: The film subverts many traditional Western tropes, focusing on humor and character relationships rather than just action and shootouts.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no significant alternate endings or deleted scenes for this film, as the final cut closely followed William Goldman’s acclaimed screenplay.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film’s screenplay was adapted into a novelization by William Goldman. The novel stays true to the film’s plot but provides additional background and internal monologues, enriching the characters’ backstories.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The Bicycle Scene: Butch rides a bicycle around with Etta while “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” plays.
- Train Robbery: The gang’s elaborate train heist and subsequent escape.
- Final Shootout: The tense and dramatic last stand against the Bolivian army.
Iconic Quotes
- “Boy, I got vision, and the rest of the world wears bifocals.” – Butch Cassidy
- “You just keep thinking, Butch. That’s what you’re good at.” – Sundance Kid
- “I can’t swim!” – Butch Cassidy
- “Are you crazy? The fall will probably kill you!” – Sundance Kid
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The bicycle Butch rides symbolizes the encroachment of modernity into the Old West.
- The film’s opening sepia-toned montage of the real Butch and Sundance is a nod to the early days of cinema.
Trivia
- The real Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid were reported to have died in a shootout in Bolivia, though some believe they survived and lived under aliases.
- Paul Newman did many of his own stunts, including the famous jump off the cliff into the river.
- The film’s success helped launch Robert Redford’s career, leading to his status as a major star.
Why Watch?
“Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” is a timeless classic that blends humor, action, and poignant drama. The chemistry between Newman and Redford, combined with Goldman’s sharp screenplay and Hill’s dynamic direction, makes it an essential watch for fans of Westerns and buddy films.
Director’s Other Movies
- The Sting (1973)
- Slap Shot (1977)
- The World According to Garp (1982)
- The Little Drummer Girl (1984)
- Funny Farm (1988)
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Sting (1973)
- Butch and Sundance: The Early Days (1979)
- The Wild Bunch (1969)
- The Magnificent Seven (1960)
- True Grit (1969)
