Watch _DUPE_American Gigolo

American Gigolo is a neo-noir crime drama film released in 1980, directed by Paul Schrader and stars Richard Gere, Lauren Hutton, and Hector Elizondo. The film tells the story of Julian Kaye, a male escort or "gigolo" living in Los Angeles, who gets tangled in a web of lies and deceit after he falls in love with one of his wealthy clients.

The movie's opening scene is an attention-grabber as we see Julian's morning routine— meticulously getting dressed, working out, and taking grooming to the next level. The underlying aesthetic on display falls between seduction and confidence, and Julian's unusually high self-esteem and suave demeanor exude a raw sexual energy. Julian's lifestyle seems extravagant, with expensive cars and designer clothes, but his facade starts to falter as the story progresses.

At the start of the film, Julian is summoned by Anne (Lauren Hutton), an older, wealthy woman, to be her escort at a party. As the night goes on, Anne takes Julian back to her home, and in the morning, we see Julian getting dressed, leaving Anne's apartment complex, but he soon realizes he left his favorite blazer behind.

Upon returning to the building, Julian is introduced to Michelle (played by model and actress, Carole Cook), Anne's neighbor who falls for Julian's debonair charm. Later in the film, Michelle contacts Julian to say that the neighbor living across from Anne's apartment is Irene (Nina Van Pallandt), a wealthy woman who is looking for a gigolo for the night, and Julian takes the job.

Soon after, Julian falls in love with Michelle and their relationship becomes more than just a casual fling. This is where the plot takes a dark turn as Julian meets Leon (Bill Duke), a narcotics detective who suspects Julian of the murder of one of his clients. The film then follows Julian's attempts to clear his name and find the real killer, as he believes he's being setup for Irene's murder.

One of the standout elements of American Gigolo is the music in the film on display. The film's score, composed by Giorgio Moroder, is haunting and trance-inducing, establishing an eerie ambiance throughout the storyline. The beautiful cinematography also adds to the film's immersive atmosphere.

Richard Gere's performance as Julian is captivating, and he embodies the character's brashness and allure perfectly. Gere's performance displays Julian's disgust with others' expectations of him and his refusal to conform to societal norms, taking us on a journey of self-discovery and identity.

Lauren Hutton's portrayal of Anne is also noteworthy, adding a sense of elegance, sophistication, and vulnerability to the character. She plays her role with conviction and imbues vulnerability, making her character more than just a wealthy older woman. Hector Elizondo's portrayal of Jake, Julian's manager or pimp, is also worth mentioning, adding humor to a film that is otherwise quite moody and dramatic.

Overall, American Gigolo is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases the beauty and allure of Hollywood's grittier side. It's a film that explores themes related to identity, societal norms, and the emotional toll of false appearances. With a compelling narrative and striking performances by the cast, it's a must-watch for anyone looking for a classic crime thriller with an edge.