Hollywood icon Richard Gere, famed for his charismatic roles and captivating performances, is embracing fresh beginnings as he settles down in Spain with his family. The 75-year-old star, known for classic films like Pretty Woman, has recently made headlines not just for his relocation but also for his poignant performance in his latest film, Oh, Canada.
Set to hit theaters on January 10, 2024, Oh, Canada features Gere as Leonard Fife, an aging filmmaker grappling with his past as he sits for interviews about his life and career. Directed by Paul Schrader, known for his insight on troubled male archetypes, the film explores Fife’s reflections and confessions, intertwined with themes of artistic growth and personal failings.
This is not Gere’s first collaboration with Schrader—40 years ago, they worked together on the iconic American Gigolo. The director discusses the character of Fife as someone who embodies both artistic brilliance and deep personal regret, calling it "a confessional of the male filmmakers of his era and their misogyny."
Fatalistically remarking on his character's narcissism, Fife reflects during the film, "I can’t tell the truth, I need witnesses.” This line highlights his complex personality and the challenges of self-awareness against the backdrop of his past relationships and decisions, including dodging the Vietnam War draft.
Meanwhile, Richard Gere's transition to life in Spain marks another defining chapter for the star. His wife, Alejandra Silva, along with their two young children, enables the family to reconnect with her roots. The picturesque town of Cuenca, recently showcased on Silva's social media, offers glimpses of their new life, flooded with medieval architecture and rich history.
Reflecting on their move, Gere expressed enthusiasm about living close to Silva’s family. He stated, "Spain is filled with extraordinary food and warm-hearted people," signaling his fondness for the culture and lifestyle he now embraces. This relocation follows his sale of his New Canaan estate at slight loss, which he initially purchased for €10.2 million from musician Paul Simon. The 31-acre property held plans of transformation, but now Gere opts for this new international lifestyle.
Yet, as reflective as he is about his current life, Gere is also candid about his previous roles. His portrayal of Edward Lewis from Pretty Woman, for example, has evolved as he shared insights on the film's improvisational history. He admitted to Variety, "We were having fun making this little tiny movie. We didn’t know if anyone would ever see this little tiny movie." Notably, the iconic piano scene was created on the spot, originally absent from the script. Gere's impromptu addition added deep emotional layers to his character, emphasizing the spontaneous joy found throughout the filmmaking process.
Despite being recognized for his role in one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time, Gere’s view of the film seems ambivalent. He has previously called Pretty Woman "my least favourite thing," critiquing how it glamorized the hard-hitting businessman archetype without addressing the moral conflicts tied to it. Although he has reservations about the film's portrayal of wealth and relationships, he appreciates the collaborative spirit of the production.
With Oh, Canada on the horizon, Gere is set to continue his artistic evolution. The film revolves deeply around confronting the echoing realities of one's life, mistakes, and regrets entwined with their creative legacy. It showcases the intimate unraveling of Fife's character and the artistry behind storytelling. Schrader's adaptation of Russell Banks' novel captures these multifaceted layers, promising audiences not just entertainment but deep introspection.
Gere’s resurgence, both personally and professionally, encapsulates the spirit of reinvention. His next roles and familial travels create intriguing narratives, seamlessly melding together the past with the present. With every venture, Richard Gere invites audiences to experience not only his characters but the emotions reflected in his own life experiences.
Indeed, the upcoming film and Gere’s life conversations reflect on growth, resilience, and unfiltered truths, drawing eager audiences to explore the personal and professional depths of this Hollywood legend.