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This is never more true than for movie stars like Burt Reynolds.
He learned how to act along the way.
But even in his misfires, your eyes are drawn to him.
What Ive always loved about Reynolds is how well he worked with women.
It wasnt just plain desire, either.
There is a glint of respect and camaraderie he has with the women he shares a screen with.
He didnt trample over their lines or force scenes to pivot around him he made room for them.
He knew they were powerful and let them shine in a way we dont quite see in Hollywood anymore.
It wont win Oscars, but Oscars do not equal actual worth.
He committed the crime of making it all look easy.
Its hard to think of another image that so neatly encapsulates a movie star.
The nude spread is tame by the standards of today, but it was a major cultural turning point.
A sex symbol at the height of his prowess had never been sexualized and sexy inthatway.
The character seems tailored to Reynoldss sensibilities and place in our cinematic canon.
(Surprisingly, he wasnt the first choice for the role.
It wasreportedly offered toHarvey Keitel originally.)
This moment feels like a portent and promise because of Reynolds.
With Reynolds in particular, when I mention desire, Im not just talking about sex and lust.
His showcase scene inBoogie Nightsis essentially a seduction.
Because theyre seated, you dont see his traditional athleticism in full bloom.
But he still moves in a way that communicates Jacks knowledge and hunger.
Sometimes he hunches over the table, leaning in toward Dirk as if they are sharing a hidden confidence.
How do you keep them in the theater after they cum?
With beauty and with acting, Jack intones with graveled certainty.
This is a man savoring life how could you not say yes?
