Wow- very depressing news. Not only a fine director but a hugely likable on screen persona. He was actually one of my favorite modern supporting players, though he didn't act all that much. I didn't even realize he was ill. I'm gonna miss him.
Really sad news. Tootsie is my all-time favorite comedy, and his scenes opposite Dustin Hoffman were nothing short of perfect. A really solid filmmaker (and actor) who will be missed.
My grandma went to highschool with him and his brother Bernie back in the day. We just watched Tootsie on Friday night. I really appreciate Sydney and will continue to love his work.
I am really saddened by this news. Back in the year in which he won the Academy Award for Out of Africa, the Chicago International Film Festival hosted a tribute to him at the Biograph Theater. I got there early to secure a good seat in the auditorium and then went out to get some popcorn. While walking back to my seat, there was a man near the exit door looking nervous and pacing. I walked past him and lo and behold it was Mr. Pollack. I cautiously approached him and mentioned that I really admired his work. He thank me and proceeded to tell me how nervous he was about this evening. We chatted about what it was like to work with Robert Redford. I was struck by how down to earth he was and by his kindness and graciousness to just a fan. I have never forgot this encounter.