Shortly after Robert Redford’s death, Scarlett Johansson shared a heartfelt Robert Redford tribute, recalling her early experience working with the iconic actor when she was just 11 years old. Her reflections highlight the impact Redford had on her growth as an actress and on the film industry as a whole.
Johansson Remembers Redford’s Supportive Mentorship on Set
During the filming of The Horse Whisperer, Johansson played Grace, a young girl coping with the aftermath of a traumatic riding accident that severely injured her horse. Redford’s character, Tom Booker, is a skilled horse whisperer who helps Grace heal. Johansson praised Redford’s nurturing approach on set, stating,
“Every day before each scene, he would take the time to sit with me and walk me through all of the beats that led my character up until that particular point in the story,”
and added,
“No matter the reality of the day’s rush, I always felt he had all the time in the world for our work.”
The film not only introduced Johansson to the spotlight but also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, “A Soft Place to Fall,” by Allison Moorer and Gwil Owen.
Reflecting on her first collaboration with Redford, Johansson said,
“Bob created an environment on set that was calm and precious; a place where actors could make discoveries. He was patient and warm and kind. Bob taught me what acting could be, and it was from his generosity and patience that I was inspired to pursue the possibilities of the craft.”
A Continued Professional Bond: The 2014 Reunion
Years later, Johansson reunited with Redford in the 2014 Marvel film Captain America: The Winter Soldier, where Redford portrayed the primary antagonist, Alexander Pierce. This reunion underscored the enduring professional relationship between the two, which began during Johansson’s early career.
Robert Redford’s Enduring Influence Through the Sundance Institute
Johansson also reflected on Redford’s vision beyond acting, noting how his commitment to creativity extended to founding the Sundance Institute in 1981. This organization has since fostered numerous independent filmmakers and emerging talents, continuing Redford’s legacy in shaping the film world.
She expressed deep gratitude for his inspiration, saying,
“Bob, thank you for your belief in me and for your grace and guidance. You inspired so many artists, me included, to go deeper, to stay present, to push creative boundaries, and to explore further, and for that, we are forever grateful.”
Through Johansson’s tribute, the lasting impact of Robert Redford’s generosity, patience, and dedication to the craft of acting and filmmaking is evident, emphasizing how his mentorship shaped a generation of artists and independent cinema alike.
