Review of the movie: American Gigolo (1980) with Richard Gere

American Gigolo, directed by Paul Schrader and released in 1980, is a film that explores the life of Julian Kaye (Richard Gere), a male escort who caters to wealthy women in Los Angeles. The movie is known for its stylish and seductive cinematography, its depiction of the glamorous lifestyle of the rich and famous, and the career-defining performance of Richard Gere.

The film opens with a montage of Julian preparing himself for his work, putting on expensive suits, grooming himself, and generally indulging in the luxurious lifestyle that his job affords him. It’s clear from the start that Julian is a man who enjoys his work, and is skilled at it. He is well-spoken, charming, and knows exactly how to cater to his clients’ needs.

Despite the lavish lifestyle that Julian leads, it is clear that he is a man who is deeply unhappy. He has no real connections to anyone, and his job is the only thing that gives him any sense of purpose. This is all about to change, however, when Julian meets Michelle (Lauren Hutton), the wife of one of his clients. The two become romantically involved, and Julian finds himself falling in love for the first time in his life.

As their relationship deepens, Julian begins to question his life as a gigolo, and wonders if he can ever escape the cycle of emptiness and loneliness that he has found himself trapped in. He becomes increasingly paranoid that someone is trying to frame him for a murder that he did not commit, and his desperation to clear his name leads him down a dangerous path.

One of the standout elements of American Gigolo is its cinematography. The film is shot in a way that is both stylish and seductive, perfectly capturing the glamour and decadence of Los Angeles in the early 1980s. From the opening shots of Julian preparing himself for work, to the steamy scenes of him and Michelle in bed together, the film is a feast for the eyes.

Richard Gere’s performance as Julian Kaye is also worth noting. This was a breakout role for the actor, and it’s not hard to see why. He perfectly captures the suave and sophisticated nature of Julian, while also bringing a vulnerability to the character that makes him sympathetic. It’s a nuanced and layered performance that remains one of Gere’s best to this day.

The film’s exploration of loneliness and emptiness is also a theme that resonates strongly with audiences. Julian’s inability to connect with anyone on a meaningful level, and his constant search for something more, is something that many people can relate to. It’s a universal theme that the film explores with sensitivity and insight.

Another aspect of the film that is worth discussing is its treatment of sex and sexuality. The film is unapologetically sexual, with scenes of Julian engaging in sexual acts with his clients, and later with Michelle. However, the film never feels exploitative or gratuitous. Instead, it treats sex as a natural and necessary part of human interaction, and explores the complex emotional dynamics that can arise from sexual relationships.

The film’s soundtrack is also worth mentioning. The score, composed by Giorgio Moroder, perfectly captures the mood and tone of the film. The synthesizer-heavy score is both atmospheric and catchy, and perfectly complements the film’s stylish visuals.

If there is one criticism that could be leveled at American Gigolo, it’s that the plot can be somewhat convoluted at times. Julian’s paranoia and desperation to clear his name can be difficult to follow, and the film’s climax can be confusing. However, this is a minor quibble, and does not detract from the film’s overall quality.

In conclusion, American Gigolo is a stylish and seductive film.