When you think about American GigoloYou can’t help but think about sex. It’s suggested right in the name, first of all. It’s also because Richard Gere is the leader in Paul SchraderThe classic 1980s neo noir is the epitome of sex appeal, fitting this label not just any escort, but the Gigolo of America. The film also deals with themes of crime, greed, narcissism and betrayal, in addition to sexual politics. Very American.
More than two decades later, American Gigolo being treated TV with a new Showtime series. In this version, actor Jon Bernthal is Julian Kaye, now running the modern sex industry in Los Angeles after serving 15 years in prison for misconduct.
In this exclusive clip, Julian is entertaining a customer when, through a hallway, he encounters Michelle Stratton (Gretchen Mol), a woman from his previous life. They locked eyes and followed each other into another room. “What are you doing with that woman?” she asked. “I guess whatever she wants,” he replied.
Their small talk was so eroding that it could have been pillow talk, as their faces grew closer and closer together. Years have passed, but the sparks seem to be flying again.
Revive and, in this case, continue an iconic story like American Gigolo can often be a risky prospect. It can also be thrilling.
Mol told The Daily Beast’s Obsessed: “There’s a lot of things that intrigue me. “Take the objection normally reserved for women and put it on a man. How does he do his job perfectly and brilliantly? I care about that. Paul Schrader has made a film that is considered iconic for its time… .How to open up and delve deeper into those themes? To make it contemporary? Who is the woman who loves Gigolo without hiring him? Who cares who he really is, and doesn’t he meet her needs? Or is it possible to have a non-transactional relationship? “
This particular scene hints at a close connection between Michelle and Julian, a bond so intense that, even after 15 years, when they meet again it is almost carnal.
Mol said: “The scene that I saw, as edited, because we shot multiple versions/variations, started to talk about the attraction between two people who are in a non-existent trading relationship with anyone. any real chemical reaction. “They meet to discover some dynamic that they feel can be more vivid and gratifying.”
American Gigolo premieres Sunday, September 11 on Showtime.
