From medical dramas like ‘The Pitt’ to streaming favorites like ‘Euphoria’, many of the biggest names in Hollywood are leaning towards long-form storytelling. But veteran actor Richard Gere has claimed that movies still remain closest to his heart.
Gere acknowledges the appeal of television. But he believes there is nothing quite as special as the movie format and the way it captures a story.
Richard Gere Loves The Simplicity Of Storytelling in Films
In a recent interview with ExtraTV, Richard Gere opened up about why he still prefers making films over television series. Whether it’s classic movies like ‘Primal Fear’ or his hit show ‘The Agency’, Gere has decades of experience in both formats.
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With this growing involvement in television series, he was asked what differences he enjoys between series and films. Gere had to admit that movies continue to be his preference. “I still prefer film,” he explained. “I like the two, two-and-a-half-hour storytelling.”
For Gere, the biggest advantage of filmmaking is having a clear beginning and ending. He enjoys the intense preparation that goes into a project, followed by the satisfaction of completing the story and then simply moving on.
“Okay, we work really hard, and we prepare really well. We shoot for, I mean, 5-6 weeks is a lot on an independent film, but then we are done,” Gere stated, “We put that aside, we did that character, we told that story. We were in that universe for that period of time. Then fine. We do something else.”
Even so, Gere understands why television has become so popular and admits that he also enjoys the format as a viewer. “I mean, I have gotten addicted to some of these shows.” He revealed.
Gere’s Career Has Been Defined By Striking Performances
Richard Gere’s preference for films makes perfect sense, considering his artistic background. Before becoming one of Hollywood’s leading men, he spent time working in theatre and music. Acting eventually became the ideal combination of his creative interests.
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Rather than staying in a single role, Gere has always been drawn to projects that allow him to fully immerse himself in a single character, deliver a striking performance, and leave a lasting impression.
“My preference is still to let’s find that two, two-and-a-half-hour story and be impeccable with it. Let that live as its own universe,” he told. After decades in the industry, Gere believes that a well-crafted movie can create its own universe. That said, his television work should not be underestimated.
Currently, he is returning to the spy drama ‘The Agency’ to reprise the role of James Bradley, known to us all as Bosko. Moreover, he is also working on a project called ‘The Off Weeks’ for Apple TV with Jessica Chastain and Ben Stiller.
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