Shirley Yanez / 17 August 2025 / Categories: Movie and TV Shows, Movie

Norman The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer

Richard Gere Movie

Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer is a 2016 film starring Richard Gere as the eponymous character, Norman Oppenheimer. The film is directed by Joseph Cedar and written by Cedar and Matthew Vaughn.

Norman Oppenheimer is a small-time, unassuming, and seemingly insignificant New York City "fixer" who befriends a young Israeli politician, Eshel, at a low point in the latter's career. As Eshel rises to power, Norman leverages their relationship to gain a sense of belonging and influence within the political and social circles of New York and beyond. However, as the story unfolds, we see that Norman's intentions are not entirely altruistic, and his actions have consequences that affect not only him but also those around him.

The film is a character study of a man whose life is a tapestry of fabricated connections and exaggerated self-importance. It explores themes of identity, ambition, and the pursuit of power in a world where one's value is often determined by their network rather than their character.

The movie received positive reviews for Richard Gere's nuanced performance as the titular character. Gere's portrayal of a man whose need for validation leads him to manipulate situations and people is both engaging and unsettling. The film's screenplay is also praised for its sharp wit and intelligent commentary on the nature of influence and the lengths people will go to maintain it.

Some critics have compared the film to a modern-day Shakespearean tragicomedy, with Norman being akin to a modern-day Iago, a man whose ambition and desire for relevance leads to his own downfall. The film's pacing and tone can be considered slow and deliberate, which may not appeal to all audiences, but it allows for a deep dive into the psyche of its main character and the complexities of his relationships.

The film is beautifully shot, capturing the bustling streets of New York City and the opulent interiors of the high society that Norman desperately tries to infiltrate. The setting serves as a backdrop for the unfolding narrative, highlighting the stark contrast between the power brokers and those who are trying to climb the social ladder.

Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer is a thought-provoking film that showcases a masterful performance by Richard Gere. It offers a unique perspective on the world of networking and the lengths people will go to maintain their perceived status. While it may not be to everyone's taste due to its pacing and sometimes uncomfortable subject matter, it is a film that is likely to resonate with those who appreciate character-driven narratives and nuanced performances. The story's twists and turns keep the audience engaged, and the script's insight into human behaviour provides food for thought long after the credits roll. I absolutely loved this film because it reminded me of myself in the days of working in the Financial markets in the City of London when it was not about what you know but who. A must watch for all as there are many lessons to be learned from watching Norman at work.