Sonny (2002)

Some people are born into it. Think of the young Rockefellers, the later-day Kennedys, the chick in high school whose dad made all that money in waste removal. By an accident of birth, these lucky youths were set smack in the middle of what the rest of us must strive a lifetime even to approach. The same can be said for actor Nicolas Cage, whose family showbiz connections certainly enhanced his career access. It is fitting, then, that Nic’s directorial debut should come with Sonny (2002). This R rated crime pic centers around the titular guy (James Franco) who just so happens to be a gigolo at a New Orleans bordello run by his mother Jewel (Brenda Blethyn). Talk about luck! Nevertheless, Sonny wants to break away from this life of promiscuous sex and easy money. Such ineffable mysteries of human nature are the stuff of great drama. As Sonny struggles to find his way, he hooks up with a blonde named Carol (Mena Suvari). The movie also includes performances by Brenda Vaccaro, Harry Dean Stanton, Josie Davis, Marc Coppola, Seymour Cassel, and Mr.Cage himself. Of course, the true scene stealer is Mr. Franco — especially when he flashes his flesh on camera. The nude dude gives us a view of his bare back and ass while in the sack at the 9-minute mark. Wait another 30 minutes and you’ll get to see James display his naked T&A again. Although a box office flop, this flick is a spank bank hit!