In 1978, Richard Gere made an American masterpiece. 24 years later, he experienced the same magic
Richard Gere has named *Days of Heaven* and *Chicago* among his favourite films, valuing both the experience of making them and the work itself. His choices span a difficult early production and a later musical that brought him major recognition.
Terrence Malick’s 1978 film was Gere’s first leading role, with a cast and crew that included Brooke Adams, Sam Shepard and cinematographer Néstor Almendros. Production faced equipment failures, union restrictions and crew departures, yet Gere said he felt part of something larger than himself. In 2002, he enjoyed making *Chicago* with director Rob Marshall; the film earned him a Golden Globe and grossed more than six times its budget.
- Gere’s favourite roles include *Days of Heaven* and *Chicago*.
- *Days of Heaven* was his first leading role.
- He says the experience of making *Chicago* was joyful.
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Richard Gere began his film career in leading roles during the 1970s, when American directors were experimenting with more personal and visually distinctive films. Days of Heaven, directed by Terrence Malick, was an early example, set among farm workers in Texas and filmed with Brooke Adams and Sam Shepard.
The production faced technical problems, union rules and crew changes, but cinematographer Néstor Almendros helped shape its distinctive look. Years later, Gere worked with director Rob Marshall on Chicago, a musical set in the world of 1920s crime and entertainment. The film brought Gere major awards recognition and was a commercial success, making the two productions notable milestones in his career.