Directed by
Michael Ballhaus
Made by
Warner Bros.
At the Venus de Milo nightclub located in beautiful Nice on the French Riviera, gigolo Christopher Tracy (Prince) entertains the wealthy clientele with his piano skills while raising a glass in a toast. A voiceover reflects on his life, revealing that while he thrived on the company and money of various rich women, it was ultimately love for one particular woman that would define his fate. As he plays melodious tunes, a captivating woman dressed in white catches his eye as she sits in a chair meant just for him. Meanwhile, his partner Tricky (Jerome Benton), observes from a nearby table, providing Christopher with strategic notes on how to win her heart while subtly reminding him of their financial needs. With shared glances and silent communication, the two assess each other until she sends over a drink and leaves behind a generous pile of cash, solidifying their intention for the evening.
The next day dawns and Christopher leaves a note for the enchanting woman in white on her pillow. He retreats to his secret hillside grotto, a hidden sanctuary where he pens poetry and composes music. Back in Nice, he shares some of his earnings with local children and helps a woman at the flower market before returning home. At his apartment, Tricky is caught in a passionate embrace with the landlady, Katy (Emmanuelle Sallet), who is demanding two months of overdue rent. In a moment of surrender, Christopher parts with a wallet full of cash before retreating to their room for a bath. He reveals to Tricky that the woman in white, Mrs. Wellington (Francesca Annis), is a divorcee with a net worth of three million dollars. As they fantasize about capitalizing on her wealth, Tricky informs him of Mary Sharon, the billionaire shipping magnate’s daughter, who has just turned 21 and will soon inherit a staggering $50 million trust fund. Christopher, now aware of the potential for great riches, admits he might even consider marriage for such an amount.
When Mrs. Wellington requests some seductive poetry over the phone, Christopher indulges in a sultry performance from his bubble bath, sharing a laugh with Tricky afterward. The scene shifts to a lavish party thrown by Mary Sharon’s father, Isaac (Steven Berkoff). The event features extravagant entertainment, including circus animals, as the Jaded Three observers gossip about Isaac’s absence. A chaotic entrance from Mary (Kristin Scott Thomas), wrapped in nothing but a sheet, draws all eyes toward her as she unveils her birthday suit to the guests, before showing her musical talent on drums. Christopher tries to woo her but finds her disinterested, leading her to her friends’ side. She quickly learns that Tricky and Christopher are not mere party crashers, with her friends critiquing Christopher’s earlier roundabout glances.
As the party progresses, Mary dismisses Tricky’s advances and hurls insults at Christopher, inadvertently sparking jealousy when Mary’s fiancé, Jonathan, calls from New York. Discarding Christopher’s invitation to the Venus de Milo, Mary finds herself entangled again with Mrs. Wellington, who beckons Christopher into her home for a private rendezvous. He is oblivious to Isaac’s sudden plans to return that night.
The following morning, Mary confronts Christopher while he plays, having prepared an acerbic retort for their earlier altercation. Mrs. Wellington’s connection with Christopher piques Mary’s curiosity, leading to a strange bond between the three. As Mary abandons her friends during the party to engage with Tricky and Christopher, Tricky’s gallant demeanor wins her over, but Mary soon returns to Isaac to declare her desire for independence.
With whims of affection, Christopher and Mary steal moments to indulge in their burgeoning relationship. As time passes, Mary realizes the weight of her family’s expectations, particularly the stipulations imposed by Isaac regarding her trust. The realization of her true feelings for Christopher ignites a tumultuous journey both in her heart and over their connections.
In crowded venues and intimate conversations, the bond grows complex. The stakes rise when Isaac learns of the relationship and makes it clear that he will never accept Christopher. The tale unfurls under the dance of love and deception, leading to a chase across the waters of their desires. Tricky, amid the chaos, witnesses Christopher’s resolute pursuit and unwavering commitment in the face of adversity, despite knowing the severe consequences that loom over their entangled lives.
As confrontations arise, Christopher’s struggle deepens, leading to the ultimate sacrifice in the name of love. Mary’s discovery of the truth brings her to a crossroads, leaving behind a world of command that only extends the distance between her and her dreams. In time, memories linger but change ensues, taking both Christopher and Mary through a riveting narrative of passion, loss, and lessons learned about the essence of true love and loyalty.
In the end, life continues for those left behind, and Mary, now wiser, prepares for a new venture while Tricky oversees the affairs of the heart with a bittersweet smile. Though Christopher may be lost, his spirit echoes through the lives he touched, leaving the foundations of their world ready for new beginnings.
Christopher's Performance
At the Venus de Milo nightclub in Nice, Christopher Tracy entertains wealthy patrons with his piano skills. As he raises a glass in toast, a voiceover reveals his glamorous lifestyle dependent on the affections of rich women.
Eyeing Mrs. Wellington
During his performance, Christopher's eyes are drawn to a captivating woman in white. Their connection is palpable as she sends over a drink, leaving behind a generous pile of cash that signals her intention for the evening.
The Note on the Pillow
The following day, Christopher leaves a note for the woman in white, Mrs. Wellington, on her pillow. He then retreats to his secret hillside grotto, where he pens poetry and music, cherishing moments of solitude.
Generosity in Nice
Back in Nice, Christopher shares some of his earnings with local children while helping a woman at the flower market. His interactions highlight his kind-hearted nature amid his gigolo lifestyle.
Tricky's Dilemma
Back at their apartment, Christopher finds Tricky involved with the landlady, Katy, who is demanding overdue rent. In a moment of financial desperation, Christopher parts with a wallet full of cash to ease the tensions.
Dreams of Wealth
Christopher reveals to Tricky that Mrs. Wellington is a wealthy divorcee, igniting dreams of capitalizing on her fortune. Tricky introduces the idea of pursuing Mary Sharon, the billionaire's daughter on the cusp of receiving a $50 million trust fund.
Seductive Poetry
When Mrs. Wellington requests seductive poetry over the phone, Christopher entertains her while enjoying a bubble bath. This lighthearted moment with Tricky brings joy as they laugh about the situation.
Mary's Chaotic Entrance
At a lavish party hosted by Mary Sharon's wealthy father, Mary steals the spotlight with a shocking entrance wrapped in a sheet. The guests are captivated, and Christopher attempts to woo her, but Mary seems indifferent.
Rising Tensions
As the party progresses, Mary’s feelings shift with jealousy when her fiancé, Jonathan, calls from New York. Following an argument, she declines Christopher's invitation to the Venus de Milo, finding herself with Mrs. Wellington instead.
Confrontation with Mary
The next morning, Mary confronts Christopher, still grappling with their earlier altercation. The growing dynamic between the three of them—Christopher, Mary, and Mrs. Wellington—becomes increasingly complex.
Shifting Affections
As Christopher and Mary's connection deepens, Mary contemplates her family’s expectations, heavily influenced by her father Isaac. These revelations stir emotions that complicate her feelings towards Christopher.
Isaac's Disapproval
When Isaac learns about Mary and Christopher's relationship, he makes it clear that he disapproves of Christopher. This confrontation heightens the stakes and complicates the budding romance with layers of familial pressure.
The Pursuit of Love
Despite the looming threat from Isaac, Christopher's love for Mary propels him into a passionate pursuit. This chase illustrates his commitment to their relationship amidst chaos and contention.
Ultimate Sacrifice
Christopher's journey reaches a critical point when he faces significant sacrifices in the name of love. Mary's realization of their emotional ties leads her to confront her desires and the harsh realities of their situations.
New Beginnings
In the aftermath of the emotional turmoil, both Mary and Tricky reflect on what has transpired. Mary, now wiser from her experiences, prepares to venture into a new chapter while honoring the memory of Christopher’s spirit.
Christopher Tracy (Prince)
Christopher is a charming gigolo whose life revolves around entertaining wealthy women while secretly longing for true love. His witty banter and musical talent mask a deeper yearning for connection and authenticity, which he ultimately seeks through his interactions with Mary. Despite his carefree facade, Christopher faces the harsh realities of love and sacrifice, leading to profound changes in his character.
Mary Sharon (Kristin Scott Thomas)
Mary is the spirited daughter of a billionaire, torn between her family's expectations and her desire for independence. Initially dismissive of Christopher, her encounters with him spark a complicated emotional journey. As she grapples with her feelings, Mary evolves from a party girl into a woman who recognizes the depth of true love, ultimately seeking her own identity away from her privileged roots.
Tricky (Jerome Benton)
Tricky serves as Christopher's confidant and partner in crime, offering both comic relief and practical advice. His personality contrasts with Christopher's romantic pursuits, often providing a grounded perspective amidst the chaos of their lives. Despite being caught up in the hedonistic lifestyle, Tricky shows moments of tenderness and loyalty, showcasing the importance of friendship alongside romantic entanglements.
Mrs. Wellington (Francesca Annis)
Mrs. Wellington is a wealthy divorcee who becomes the object of Christopher's affections. Her allure and sophistication captivate him, but their connection complicates when Mary enters the scene. Through her interactions with both men, she embodies the contrast between superficial relationships and deeper emotional truths.
Isaac (Steven Berkoff)
Isaac is Mary Sharon’s wealthy father, embodying the power dynamics present in their privileged world. His expectations and controlling nature create tension in Mary’s life, ultimately influencing her decisions regarding love and independence. Isaac’s character serves as a representation of societal pressures that can stifle true desires.
Time period
The movie reflects a contemporary lifestyle, emphasizing the social dynamics and lavish lifestyles of the wealthy during a period characterized by extravagant parties and indulgent relationships. Though specific dates are not pinpointed, the setting captures a time of opulence and the quest for love amidst materialism.
Location
Nice, French Riviera, Venus de Milo nightclub
The story unfolds in Nice, a glamorous city on the French Riviera renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The Venus de Milo nightclub serves as a central location where the affluent come to enjoy entertainment and indulge in the thrill of romance. With its picturesque views and lively atmosphere, Nice provides the perfect backdrop for the intertwining lives of the characters.
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Love and Sacrifice
The theme of love and sacrifice is central to the characters' journeys, particularly Christopher's longing for genuine connection amidst his superficial encounters. His sacrifices in the pursuit of true love with Mary demonstrate the challenges and beauty found in genuine relationships. The turbulent path reveals the impact of social expectations on love, leading to heart-wrenching decisions and emotional growth.
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Wealth and Desire
Wealth plays a significant role in the characters' motivations, influencing their relationships and decisions throughout the narrative. Christopher's initial allure to rich women stems from his need for financial stability, while the prospect of marrying into wealth presents conflicting desires. As the plot unfolds, the characters grapple with the true cost of love versus material gain.
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Identity and Self-Discovery
As the characters navigate the complexities of their relationships, themes of identity and self-discovery emerge. Mary struggles between her family's expectations and her desires, while Christopher wrestles with his role as a gigolo. Their journeys reflect the quest for authenticity and understanding one's true self amidst societal pressures and personal ambitions.
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