Gina Gershon’s Bold Career Move in Bound

Gina Gershon faced significant resistance from her agents when she decided to take on the lead role in the 1996 film Bound. Her agents warned her that her career would be ruined and that she would never work again if she accepted the role. Despite this pushback, Gershon stood her ground and decided to go ahead with the project, even if it meant parting ways with her agency.

At the time, Gershon’s agency was concerned about her taking on a queer role, fearing that it would be too risqué following her previous performance in Showgirls. They advised against her playing a lesbian character, believing it would hinder her future job prospects. However, Gershon saw beyond these narrow-minded stereotypes and recognized that the film was about more than just sexuality. She believed in the well-written script and the talented directors, Lana and Lilly Wachowski.

In Bound, Gershon portrays Corky, a recently released ex-convict who embarks on a passionate relationship with Violet (played by Jennifer Tilly), the girlfriend of a dangerous mobster named Caesar. The two women join forces to execute a plan to run away with $2 million of the mob’s money. Despite the lesbian storyline, Gershon emphasizes that the film is ultimately about trust and loyalty, rather than just the characters’ sexual orientations.

Bound marked the directorial debut of Lana and Lilly Wachowski, who later achieved immense success with the Matrix franchise. Gershon commended the Wachowskis for their talent and praised their directorial skills. The film provided them with a platform to showcase their creativity and storytelling abilities, setting the stage for their future success in Hollywood.

Gina Gershon’s decision to star in Bound despite facing opposition from her agents was a bold and pivotal moment in her career. The film challenged stereotypes and offered a fresh perspective on relationships and trust. Working with the Wachowskis proved to be a rewarding experience for Gershon, as she recognized their immense talent early on. Bound remains a cult classic that continues to resonate with audiences for its unique storytelling and memorable performances.