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

Norman Oppenheimer is a lonely, awkward, and well-intentioned man who desperately tries to make connections in New York City. He befriends a troubled Israeli politician, offering him expensive shoes as a gift. Years later, his politician friend is elected Prime Minister, and Norman's life is thrown into a chaotic spiral of intrigue, conspiracy, and unexpected power.

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Richard Gere's performance and the film's unique blend of dark comedy and political commentary. Some critics found the narrative occasionally meandering, but most agreed it offered a thought-provoking and entertaining look at ambition, loneliness, and the nature of influence.

• Richard Gere delivers a memorable performance as a complex and sympathetic character.
• The film cleverly balances humor with a sharp critique of political maneuvering and social connections.
• While sometimes slow-paced, the narrative offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of loneliness and ambition.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's unique story and Richard Gere's portrayal of the titular character, finding it to be an interesting and often funny look at the complexities of human connection and power dynamics. Some viewers felt the plot became a bit convoluted in its later stages.

The character of Norman Oppenheimer was reportedly inspired by a real-life acquaintance of the director, Richard Shepard, who was a somewhat enigmatic figure in New York City circles.