Basic Instinct

Starring: Michael Douglas, Sharon Stone, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Wayne Knight
Directed by: Paul Verhoeven
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Crime
1992

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A detective (Michael Douglas) investigates a grisly crime, and is convinced the murderer is a mysterious writer (Sharon Stone) who perfectly described the same murder in one of her novels. She proves to be more than meets the eye, however.

Review:

Tim: I know there are people who don't like this movie for its strong violence and sex, but that is exactly what this movie is all about. It is exactly these overtones that set it apart from the majority of other films. The story is thrilling and intense, and you can't pull your eyes away because danger is always just a moment away. This movie might not be the best ever, but it is extraordinarily controversial and sometimes that is enough to warrant a view.

Michael Douglas is very good in the role. He is likeable, yet vulnerable enough to keep us worried about his safety. Sharon Stone is off the charts in her extremely memorable role. While she's remembered for her one shockingly controversial scene, she is very good throughout. This is a complex, difficult role, and while she is very often subpar, she works amazingly here. Jeanne Tripplehorn adds in a very strong supporting performance, and I found myself surprised I liked her as much as I did in this role.

This movie is so intense because Douglas is so determined to play with fire. We suspect he is taking his own life into his hands with no regard for his own safety. This is actually spellbinding to watch.

This is not a movie I'd want to watch too often, but it is a dark, dangerous, gritty, and unflinching film that packs a pretty powerful punch. Basic Instinct is one of those infamous movies that, like it or not, is not going away, so you might as well watch.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Basic Instinct 2, The Specialist, Disclosure, Indecent Proposal