In this post, we look at the neo-noir classic that launched Richard Gere’s career, American Gigolo. Written and directed by Paul Schrader, the movie packs an offbeat plot and a standout performance from Gere. Set in Los Angeles, it is the tale of a male escort who finds himself in a desperate situation that could annihilate his entire life. Its message is a commentary on the shallowness of human nature. John Travolta and Christopher Reeve were among those considered for the protagonist role in this film.

Julian Kay (Gere) is in the world’s oldest profession. He is a heterosexual male escort who caters to LA’s affluent women. He seems to live his dream life. He enjoys his work, gets to dine in upscale places, has a lavish apartment in Westwood, and a stellar collection of suits and dress shirts. He works with his procurer Ann (Nina van Pallandt) and his pimp Leon (Bill Duke), who arrange for him to meet his clients. He is materialistic and has no close relationships.

While he is on one of his assignments, he runs into Michelle (Lauren Hutton), a senator’s wife who falls madly in love with him. As he begins a relationship with her, he realizes that making love to Michelle is not business as usual and is conflicted when he develops feelings for her.

Soon, one of his clients is murdered, and LA police officer Sunday believes that Julian is the killer.

Is Julian being framed? By whom? With no one to turn to, things look hopeless for Julian as the law soon catches up with him. Who can he turn to to save himself from a possible death sentence? The movie ends on a cynical note.

Richard Gere carries this film with his personality and flair. Entire sets were built to match the color tones of Gere’s Armani suits with the background and lighting. The cinematography is excellent, filmed in exquisite locations in the Los Angeles of the 80s. Of course, one cannot overlook the outfits, especially Richard Gere’s outfits. The suits Gere wore were all created by Giorgio Armani. Armani saw a giant boost in its sales upon the film’s release. It must be mentioned that American Gigolo was also one of the earliest movies to feature male frontal nudity. (Don’t worry, the scene is brief.) The film’s Oscar-nominated haunting score comes from Giorgio Moroder. Blondie’s “Call Me,” a song presented in the movie, became the number-one single of its time. The writer Paul Schrader considers ‘American Gigolo’ one among his four bookend movies.

The movie examines the dividing line between materialism, love, lust, and passion and how deeply these human values are intertwined. This movie is essential watching for all movie buffs, particularly neo-noir and thriller fans.