The Company You Keep is a 2012 American political thriller film directed by Robert Redford, based on Neil Gordon’s 2003 novel of the same name. The movie stars Redford himself, along with a strong ensemble cast that includes Shia LaBeouf, Julie Christie, Sam Elliott, Nick Nolte, Susan Sarandon, and Chris Cooper.

Plot:

The film follows Jim Grant (played by Robert Redford), a former Weather Underground member who has spent decades living under a false identity as a quiet, law-abiding lawyer. The Weather Underground was a radical left-wing group active during the 1960s and 1970s, responsible for a series of bombings in protest of the U.S. government’s policies, particularly related to the Vietnam War. The story takes off when a young investigative journalist named Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf) uncovers a connection between Jim Grant and a wanted fugitive, leading to an investigation that unearths a tangled web of past actions, loyalty, and betrayal.

As the journalist digs deeper into Grant’s past, Grant is forced to confront the decisions he made during his involvement with the Weather Underground and deal with the consequences of those decisions, while trying to keep his new life intact. The film explores themes of political activism, moral choices, and the long-lasting impact of history on the present.

Themes and Style:

The movie reflects on the complexities of idealism, youth activism, and the consequences of radical movements. It touches on the idea of reconciliation and redemption, as characters struggle with the ghosts of their past. Director Robert Redford, a political activist himself, is known for exploring themes of social justice, which are reflected in the film.

Reception:

The Company You Keep was met with mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised the performances of the cast, particularly Redford, but some felt the film’s pace and direction were slow. The movie was seen as more of a character-driven drama than a traditional thriller. While it wasn’t a huge commercial success, it did receive some recognition for its thought-provoking script and the way it handled the political backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s activism.

Interesting Facts:

• The film is notable for its star-studded cast, many of whom are well-known figures in both Hollywood and political circles.
• Robert Redford, as director, and Shia LaBeouf, as the ambitious journalist, bring a generational contrast to the film.
• Julie Christie, who plays a key role in the plot, had a cameo in the film, marking one of her notable returns to the screen after a long hiatus.

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