Pai — Exactly — Love Story is so far inferior, yet it always gets the kudos. Whatev. And I think you’re onto something with the prettiest party being Redford theory (though I think it is also that you have two strong actors in both roles — Meryl and Barbara both more than hold their own).

And yes, his role in Tootsie was so great. Such great chemistry with Hoffman.

I think what impresses me most about Pollack as an actor and a director is that he instinctively knew how to get the best from those around him — whether he was playing opposite them or directing them. And he did it in a way that never overshadowed the performances themselves. So many actors (and directors) are showy and try to grab the spotlight in every scene they are in — Pollack didn’t — but you never forgot him and he always made his films better. And as a director, he always kept the focus where it needed to be.

Loved his work as actor and director. Especially in tootsie.

Pai