Robert Redford Hypocrite, a short film produced and directed by Ann McElhinney and Phelim McAleer, exposes Robert “Sundance” Redford’s environmentalism as little more than a tap dance, perhaps designed to endear himself to wealthy Hollywood liberals, especially ones who might buy one of his exclusive $2 million dollar lots for a luxury vacation home near his Colorado Utah ski resort. Unfortunately, genuine environmentalists should probably not apply. That might run down the market price, making it harder for Redford to cash in.

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In Hypocrite, it’s the development of eco-friendly housing near Redford’s Napa Valley vineyard that has him removing the welcome mat for genuine environmentalists. Contrary to his now long-in-the-tooth image as the Sundance Kid,when Redford’s financial interests are threatened by genuine environmental projects, he looks to be more Butch NIMBY*, than Butch Cassidy.

Redford is one of the main opponents of a plan by the Pacific Union College to build an eco-village in Angwin California. The college says it needs the funds because of a dire financial situation. The village is close to Redford’s vineyard in the Napa Valley. However whilst publicly opposing this development “to preserve the rural heritage” Redford has been quietly selling development lots in the Sundance Preserve for $2 million. These lots are intended for vacation homes close to Redford’s Sundance Ski Resort.

The double standard is revealed in a short film Robert Redford Hypocrite which has just been released.

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The way I see it television needs, among other things, the following:

1. Science Fiction/Thriller/Horror Channel

A short form/short film channel showcasing those genres. Independent producers, writers, creators could submit work to be aired. It wouldn’t have to be, nor should it be at the Sundance level of professionalism delivered on DigiBeta and starring Cameron Diaz doing a favor for the filmmaker because it’s her friend’s cousin, either.

We don’t want that. There’s plenty of that kind of venue and they turn down 99% of the stuff submitted anyway, mainly because it’s not the work of someone’s friend’s cousin. So forget that right away. It has to be underground, guerilla, shoestring and, most important, good. Very good. Damn good. But not expensive. How can you do that, you say? 

With writing.   (more…)