Gina Gershon made a bold move early in her career when she decided to work with first-time directors, the Wachowskis. Despite the talent that these directors possessed, Gershon faced opposition from her own agents who were hesitant to let her take on the lead role in the 1996 sapphic noir cult classic Bound. They warned her that it could potentially ruin her career and make it difficult for her to find work in the future. However, Gershon stood her ground and decided to take a leap of faith by accepting the role.
Challenging the Status Quo
Gershon faced backlash from her agency who believed that taking on a queer role after her performance in Showgirls would be too risqué. They advised her against playing a lesbian character, fearing that it would limit her opportunities in Hollywood. Despite their reservations, Gershon argued that the film was well-written and that she believed in the directors’ vision. She challenged the narrow-minded thinking of her agency and saw the movie as an opportunity to make a statement about trust and bigger issues beyond just sexual orientation.
In Bound, Gershon portrays Corky, a character who embarks on a love affair with Violet, played by Jennifer Tilly. The two women come together to devise a plan to escape with $2 million of the mob’s money, all while navigating a dangerous relationship with a ruthless gangster. Written and directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski, Bound served as the Wachowski sisters’ directorial debut, showcasing their immense talent before they went on to helm the iconic Matrix franchise. Gershon praised the Wachowskis for their creativity and vision, solidifying the film as a groundbreaking and bold piece of cinema.
Gina Gershon’s decision to take on the role in Bound was not just about a job – it was about standing up for artistic freedom and the ability to challenge stereotypes in Hollywood. By defying the expectations of her agency and embracing a role that pushed boundaries, she paved the way for greater representation and diversity in the film industry. Gershon’s bravery and conviction in her craft serve as an inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers to fearlessly pursue their creative visions, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
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