Downhill Racer (The Criterion Collection) - Region 1 DVD

SPECIAL EDITION FEATURES - New, restored high-definition digital transfer - New video interviews with screenwriter James Salter; film editor Richard Harris; production manager Walter Coblenz; and former downhill skier Joe Jay Jalbert, who served as technical adviser, a ski double, and a cameraman - Audio excerpts from a 1979 American Film Institute seminar with director Michael Ritchie - Theatrical trailer - PLUS: A booklet featuring an essay by critic Todd McCarthy"

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Robert Redford stars in this excellent 1969 film about a selfish and ambitious athlete who wants to break records at the Olympics but not participate in the teamwork emphasized by his coach (Gene Hackman). Redford comes across as a rare heel, and the film's understated tone keeps the focus on characters and sundry themes important to director Michael Ritchie (The Candidate): the sacrifices of the race, the price of winning, the fear of losing. --Tom Keogh