Full Breakdown
Richard Gere Films Controversial Age-Gap Romance “Asymmetry” in New York
7/19/2026, 12:39:52 PM
Gere Begins Filming “Asymmetry” with Diana Silvers
On location in New York City, 76-year-old actor Richard Gere was photographed sharing a bench with 28-year-old co-star Diana Silvers in Central Park. The pair, who portray author Ezra and aspiring writer Alice, were seen laughing, holding hands and walking together while shooting scenes that depict the characters’ meeting place in the novel’s storyline.
Plot Centers on Decades-Long Age Gap
The film adapts Lisa Halliday’s novel *Asymmetry*, which sparked controversy for portraying a romantic relationship between a septuagenarian author and a woman in her twenties. The narrative focuses on the “intense love affair” that develops despite the more-than-four-decade age difference between the protagonists.
Director Edward Zwick’s Vision
Oscar-winning producer Edward Zwick serves as both director and writer for the project. He told People that the story is “about two people who discover that what the world calls asymmetry can in fact have another name: love.” Zwick’s involvement signals a high-profile approach to the source material’s provocative premise.
Gere’s Personal Life Context
Gere is married to 43-year-old Alejandra Silva, with whom he has two children, the youngest born on April 23, 2020. He was previously married to actress Carey Lowell (1996-2013) and supermodel Cindy Crawford (1991-1995). His earlier film work includes the 1990 romantic comedy *Pretty Woman* and the 2002 musical *Chicago*, which won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture in 2003.
Criticism Over Age-Gap Narrative
Commentators have highlighted the novel’s and now the film’s focus on a relationship with a significant age disparity, describing it as “shocking” and questioning its cultural implications. Critics argue that the portrayal may normalize large age gaps in romantic contexts.
Verbatim Quotes
“It’s about two people who discover that what the world calls asymmetry can in fact have another name: love.” — Edward Zwick, director and writer.
