A cat-and-mouse thriller praised as a ‘masterpiece’ by viewers airs on Film4 this evening, offering the perfect opportunity to witness a Hollywood icon’s swansong performance.

The Old Man and The Gun, which hit cinemas in 2018, chronicles the exploits of Forrest Tucker, a professional criminal and escape artist extraordinaire.

The screenplay draws loosely from David Grann’s 2003 New Yorker piece “The Old Man and the Gun”, subsequently featured in his 2010 collection The Devil and Sherlock Holmes.

The screen adaptation features Robert Redford, Casey Affleck, Danny Glover, Tika Sumpter, Tom Waits and Sissy Spacek.

The narrative centres on septuagenarian Forrest Tucker (Robert Redford), who executes a remarkable breakout from San Quentin before embarking on an extraordinary robbery spree that baffles law enforcement whilst captivating the general public.

Hot on his trail is Detective John Hunt (Casey Affleck), who develops a fascination with Forrest’s dedication to his vocation, alongside a woman who adores him despite his criminal pursuits.

The picture holds particular significance as Redford’s final screen appearance, with the legendary performer subsequently passing away in September 2025.

The production generated a substantial $17.9 million in cinema receipts and garnered glowing reviews from audiences, boasting an impressive 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

One reviewer said: “The Old Man and the Gun is simply, purely joyful. It’s not an ecstatic joy, but it’s a deeply comfortable one.”, reports the Mirror.

Another fan added: “Redford is utilised perfectly here. His natural charm makes this lovable bank robber all the more appealing. Also, Lowery’s meticulous recreation of the early 80s is impressive.”

A third viewer wrote: “Really enjoyed this. I thought the camera work was fantastic. Redford is one of the best actors of all time and this shows it. Fun, slow paced movie.”

A fourth said: “Watching it is like a fine chocolate. You want it to last longer because it’s so rich. Acting is excellent chemistry between Redford and Spacek so authentic. Casey Affleck is great. The small conversational moments stitched together make it a delicacy.”

Another added: “I grew up watching films starring Redford. This is absolutely right for his last one. He made me smile through tears in the end.”

Another admirer wrote: “This is a damn near perfect little movie about people doing what they love and not letting anyone else get in their way. Redford and Spacek are an absolute joy to watch together and the 70s style of filmmaking works beautifully. Give me more movies like this please.”

Another shared: “Enjoyable change of pace from stories with big world-changing consequences and explosions galore. It’s just an old man who likes robbing banks and not hurting anyone in the process. Redford is undeniably charming in his swan song performance. Particularly moving was the use of Jackson C. Frank’s ‘Blues Run the Game.'”.

The Old Man & The Gun airs on Film 4 on Tuesday 13 January at 7.10pm.