Julian Kaye is a male escort in Los Angeles, whose job supports and requires an expensive taste in cars and clothes, and affords him a luxury Westwood apartment. He is blatantly materialistic, narcissistic and superficial. However, he takes pleasure in his work from being able to sexually satisfy women, especially older ones.
Julian's procurer, Anne, sends him on an assignment with a wealthy old widow, Mrs. Dobrun, who is visiting town. Afterwards, he goes to the hotel bar and meets Michelle Stratton, the senator's wife, who becomes obsessed with him. Julian's friend, Leon, sends him to Palm Springs on a "substitute" assignment to the house of Mr. Rheiman, a wealthy financier. Rheiman asks Julian to have violent sex with his wife Judy, while watching them. The next day, Julian berates Leon for sending him to a "rough trick" and makes it clear he declines kinky or gay assignments. Leon in turn warns Julian that the wealthy, older women he serves will turn on him and discard him without a second thought.
Directed by Paul Schrader
Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer
Written by Paul Schrader
Starring
Richard Gere
Lauren Hutton
Hector Elizondo
Nina Van Pallandt
Bill Duke
Music by Giorgio Moroder
Cinematography John Bailey
Edited by Richard Halsey