Survival at its best

I don't think of Jeremiah Johnson as a western, but as a survivor movie. Johnson confronts Indians, the elements and discrimination with endurance and intelligence.I like seeing Robert Redford in this part. In most of Redford's roles, his attractiveness is essential to the role. The role of Jeremiah Johnson does not require good looks, but skilled acting. Much to his credit, Redford does the part justice!The diverse challenges Johnson faces makes for a stimulating entertainment experience. Its not just about a guy facing the harsh climate of the rockies, but about the challenges of getting along with other humans. Many Indians feel threatened by the "white man" and fight against the encroachment on their traditional lands. But, Johnson also takes an Indian woman as a wife. So, its not just about fighting Indians, but about fighting and compromising and even loving. The movie depicts the diversity and gray areas of real life, rather than giving us a story that presents everything as "black" or "white."For some reason, my favorite parts are his struggles to survive the harsh winters. There are lessons to be learned for those of us accustomed to central air and heat, electricity and other services. The movie lends itself to imagination, "What would I do under those circumstances?"One of my favorite flicks for a Saturday afternoon.