A stylish 80s movie about a gig Ali to the rich who is set up in a murder. Nice seeing Richard Gere in his prime. Movie was soft compared to today’s standards but it was well made. A good watch.

[SkyShowtime] It may be a little too stuck in its time, but the portrayal of this seducer in an artificial background is one of the best portrayals of loneliness ever made. Michelle's dependency on Julian is just as desperate as Julian's on Michelle (something David Hollander's series, by the way, doesn't adequately explore). And Richard Gere's "nice to meet himself" attitude works, this time, in the film's favor.

I’ve always been interested in the work of Paul Schrader, one of the best screenwriters of the past 50 years, and "American Gigolo" felt like a strong confirmation of his directing skills. It didn’t disappoint. You could call it a cult film of the California disco era—the movie captures that atmosphere very well, showing how a hedonistic lifestyle can spiral into something as dark as murder. In a way, the two don’t feel entirely unrelated. Julian Kaye’s life reflects that: he’s indifferent, comfortable in his profession, and shows little remorse. The role of women in that world was also surprising, but that’s part of the film’s intention—portraying desire without taboos or restrictions. The film also reflects the excesses of the disco era, not just in America but across Western Europe, hinted at through the protagonist’s interactions. There’s an interesting ambiguity in Julian’s situation—whether his involvement in the central conflict comes from pure naivety or from a kind of blindness caused by his own indulgence. Schrader doesn’t judge; he simply presents. Visually, the film is very strong—the costumes, makeup, and scenery all highlight the importance of glamour, especially in contrast with the much harsher world of the LAPD detective. That said, the story can feel inconsistent at times, which keeps it from being one of the best films of the 1980s. Certain moments come across as unrealistic, especially around the murder plot and Michelle Stratton’s behavior, which at times feels taken from a porno chic movie. Still, despite these flaws, the film earns its place as a cult classic, even if it doesn’t fully reach its potential.

This, IMHO, is one of the most stylish movies outside of the James Bond franchise. Peak Richard Gere. I don't think he ever looked this good in a movie since. His suits and general aesthetic is classic elegance and style. Of course the dude drives a Mercedes SL. I mean what other car can complete the look? Even the interior decor of sets (houses, restaurants etc.) look well curated and put together. They haven't left out the extras either. They are all well dressed and groomed. I wonder what the wardrobe and styling budget was for this movie back then? Either way, I'm glad I finally watched it today.

Richard Gere as a Gigolo.