'American Gigolo' Review: Jon Bernthal Shines In Classy Adult Drama
The discussion of masculinity, gender identity, and sexual drive takes a modern twist in the drama American Gigolo (airing September 10 on Paramount +).
This remake was directed by David Hollander (Ray Donovan) and is based on the characters created by Paul Schrader in his eponymous film with Richard Gere. However, in this incarnation, the role that has done so much to Gere's popularity is played by Jon Bernthal and Julianne Kaye scores a home run from the first minute.
What is clear in the first few minutes is that David Hollander respects the source material; American Gigolo is one of Paul Schroeder's main works, along with Taxi Driver and Card Counter, as a film that explores masculinity.
Read more. All new at Paramount + in September
Thinker on the fringes of mainstream cinema whose contemporaries include Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola, he continues to shape cinema today.
As for American Gigolo, its creator, David Hollander, has slightly adapted this formula for a new generation, where the objectification of others has no boundaries. Former prisoners cannot continue to seduce women for money.
Told through a combination of flashbacks, the American Gigolo jumps between past and present, drawing on the young incarnations of Julia Bernthal and Gabrielle Labelle. The latter perfectly complements his old incarnation as viewers experience the turning points that define this man. In these opening episodes, American Gigolo introduces viewers to a show that some may have a hard time resisting.
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While the central premise centers on finding those responsible for defamation when Julian is released from fifteen years in prison, American Gigolo is actually trying to explore what Paul Schroeder was trying to answer over forty years ago.
The story continues
Although the sexual landscape may change, identity issues remain equally ambivalent, while identity disputes have more to do with them than just biology.
Along with Bernthal as Julian, Gretchen Mol follows in the footsteps of former client Michelle Stratton and forges the only true romance on screen. There is tenderness and understanding between them, which she lacks in her relationship with her husband Richard (Leland Orser). However, after her fifteen-year hiatus, things move on and she has a teenage son who, ironically, loves her teacher more than her family.
As Julian gets used to life on the street, memories resurface of casual encounters with old friends, dressed in shop windows or, more bitterly, returning home. A place where lively caravan parks oppose and formative memories show where his relationship with sex was first formed.
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Armed with the adornments that made it an attractive proposition for women of all ages, this is where the American Gigolo really begins to explore masculinity. Like Paul Schroeder, David Hollander is trying to understand the idea of the mask in society. Julian as a man exists to offer comfort, convenience and companionship, while Johnny hides behind a facade where he cannot communicate with anyone. Oddly, one exists within the other and at the same time is the same.
It is the heart of the Paramount + series, which has attracted producers such as Jerry Bruckheimer and Jared Leto. Faith is a powerful thing, and with these people behind the project, Paramount clearly felt it was worth the risk.
However, perhaps the greatest danger and exposure comes in the scene where Rosie O'Donnell steals the power of Detective Sunday. In the first shot, a modest and uncompromising law enforcement officer delivers a furious intimate tirade to Julian. Hidden under thick glasses, a military haircut and a gray vibe, the comedian is unrecognizable.
Just as Julian is fascinated by her genetic advantages, Detective Sunday is limited by her creamy good looks. Devoid of femininity and defined by norms and rules, this performance is no less powerful in its immersive and immersive qualities. Needless to say, Bernthal will be praised for his poignant portrayal of broken manhood, but O'Donnell does something of the same caliber without glasses.
In addition to these powerful performances with unique chemistry, American Gigolo benefits from the support of players Lizzy Brocher and Wayne Brady. The former represents a manipulative dominator who has Julian's story, while the latter represents his backbone for better or for worse. Each effortlessly adds drama to this complex series.
Viewers looking for a mature piece of contemporary drama with all the fluidity, complexity and precision of cinema on the big screen are best off looking for American Gigolo.
The first two episodes of American Gigolo are available on Paramount +, with new episodes released weekly on Saturdays. Watch the trailer below.
