Robert Redford and Sydney Pollack on the Set of Three Days of the Condor, 1974

This photograph shows Robert Redford and Sydney Pollack on the set of Three Days of the Condor during filming in New York in 1974. The image captures a moment of concentration between actor and director as they work through a scene. It offers a rare glimpse into the collaborative process behind one of the most influential political thrillers of the decade.

At the time, Redford was at the height of his career. He was known for performances that balanced intelligence, restraint, and emotional control. Pollack, already an accomplished director, shared a similar approach. Their partnership was built on trust and precision, qualities that are evident in this quiet exchange.

Rather than depicting action or performance, the photograph focuses on preparation. Pollack gestures with his hands while Redford listens attentively. The setting is understated. There is no theatrical staging. The emphasis is on communication and intent. This moment reflects the discipline required to shape a film rooted in tension and realism.

Three Days of the Condor explored themes of surveillance, paranoia, and institutional power. Its relevance has only grown over time. This image captures the seriousness with which both men approached the material. It highlights the intellectual rigor behind the film’s production.

Photographed by Terry O’Neill, the image exemplifies his ability to document moments that exist between performance and pause. Rather than creating a formal portrait, he records an authentic interaction. The result is both intimate and historically significant.

Today, Robert Redford and Sydney Pollack on the set of Three Days of the Condor stands as a compelling document of creative collaboration. The photograph endures as a testament to shared vision, restraint, and the craft of filmmaking at its highest level.