Robert Redford turns 87: Reveals his trick behind sex scenes in his films

In 1973, the iconic feature film 'The Way They Were' hit the cinema screens, winning two Oscars and featuring outstanding performances by Robert Redford and Barbra Streisand. Coinciding with the legendary actor's 87th birthday, it is fitting to look back at author Robert Hofler's accounts in 'The Way They Were: How Epic Battles and Bruised Egos Brought a Classic Hollywood Love Story to The Screen'. This account sheds light on the turbulent times of that era and, above all, reveals the peculiar strategy employed by Redford in filming the intimate scenes.

The origin of all this lies in Redford's initial reluctance to work with a woman he did not consider a "serious actress". In reality, he was looking to protect himself, given his responsibilities as a husband and father of four children. But Streisand didn't want to be completely naked in the scenes either. In fact, the actress wore a bikini. Redford, on the other hand, took a more conservative stance by wearing a double layer of underwear and aimed for a more "all-ages" approach.

Beyond its box office success, the film received great reviews and two Oscars, one awarded for best song, 'The Way We Were', performed by Streisand. Interestingly, one of the terms set by Redford when considering his co-star was that she should not sing.

Some of Robert Redford's best films

• Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)

• The Sting (1973)

• All the President's Men (1976)

• The Natural (1984)

• Out of Africa (1985)

• Quiz Show (1994)

• The Horse Whisperer (1998)

• Spy Game (2001)

• Lions for Lambs (2007)

• All Is Lost (2013)

In addition, Redford has been awarded two Oscars, an honorary one for his career and another for best director for 'Ordinary People'