Steven Soderbergh reaffirms his position as a master director with this portrait of a $2,000-an-hour Manhattan escort. With adult film star Sasha Grey as his lead, Soderbergh takes us into the life of a woman who provides her clients the true "girlfriend experience," not just your average date. Sophisticated, worldly, well-dressed, and well-versed in the topics of pre-election politics and issues, Grey's call girl and her accepting trainer boyfriend (Chris Santos) provide us the storyline that guides us through the capitalist underbelly of our society.

Although it has its sexy elements, this film is at its heart a portrait of a woman who is determined to stay at the top of her game, hiring consultants to keep her at the peak of her profession. As such, the film becomes an investigation not only of her relationships but also of the various transactions—commercial, sexual, emotional, and otherwise—of everyday life. Shot using cutting-edge digital technology that enabled Soderbergh to shoot speedily with a small crew, The Girlfriend Experience looks stunning. Once again Soderbergh proves that he does not need to strive, like his lead character does, to stay at the peak of his game. A Magnolia Pictures presentation.

Wednesday, April 29, 8:00 pm
@SVA Theater (333 West 23rd Street), Theater 2

After the Movie: Director Steven Soderbergh and lead actors Sasha Grey and Chris Santos will discuss their combined experiences making the film. Moderated by Marie Claire film critic Caryn James.

Steven Soderbergh marks his 20th film with The Girlfriend Experience. His directorial debut, sex, lies, and videotape, earned him an Oscar® nomination for best original screenplay. He received the Academy Award® for directing Traffic the same year he was nominated for Erin Brockovich. Additional credits include The Informant, Che, Ocean's Thirteen, The Good German, Bubble, Ocean's Twelve, Solaris, Full Frontal, Ocean's Eleven, The Limey, Out of Sight, Gray's Anatomy, Schizopolis, The Underneath, King of the Hill, and Kafka.