Director's Trick to Make Richard Gere 'Homely'

Director Adrian Lyne shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes about casting Richard Gere and Diane Lane in the 2002 film 'Unfaithful.' Lyne specifically tried to make Gere appear less athletic and more 'homely' for his role as a conventional husband. To achieve this, Lyne secretly placed cookies and other treats in Gere's clothing, hoping the actor would consume them and gain weight.

Gere eventually discovered Lyne's peculiar method, realizing the director's intention. Despite this, Gere delivered a performance that Lyne praised, particularly in a scene where his character joins Lane's in a bath, highlighting the emotional complexities of betrayal. The film, known for its exploration of infidelity, also featured a dramatic windstorm scene created with powerful machinery.

Gere himself reflected on the film's themes, stating that dramatic tension arises from bad decisions, whether intentional or seemingly fated. He suggested that his character's wife's affair simply 'happened' rather than stemming from deep marital dysfunction. The movie was filmed in New York City, with the production using significant special effects for weather scenes.