Basic Instinct

UK Release Date: 08 May 1992

Certification: 18
Director: Paul Verhoeven
Cast: Daniel von Bargen, Michael Douglas, George Dzundza, Wayne Knight, Sharon Stone, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Bruce A. Young

Rating: 61%

Review: 

Basic Instinct consists of an awful, awful script. There are several laughable moments as a result of cringe writing, uninventive and insufferable dialogue. It results in quite a few cast members simply phoning it in or over acting in an attempt to get something out of the wooden material that they have to work with. 

The late Jerry Goldsmith composes the film's score. With an illustrious filmography consisting of Alien, Chinatown and Planet of the Apes - receiving a total of 18 Oscar nominations including one for Basic Instinct. Personally, the score feels overused and overwhelming even if it is complete with decent pieces of music. 

Michael Douglas is solid enough in the lead role - he garnered fame for similar roles around this time. However, Sharon Stone steals the show. You simply cannot take your eyes off of her (not like that). It's such a boisterous performance that exudes confidence throughout the entire runtime. Her performance drives forward the intrigue in the film making the majority of what is seen on screen pay-off. Constantly under surveillance, scrutinised and questioned, and yet Stone's Catherine Tramell 

The direction is solid. Paul Verhoeven knows how to create suspense and thrills from beginning to end going full De Palma. The interrogation scene is masterfully crafted, filmed in a manner that leaves the audience on the edge of their seat. The 90's aesthetic benefits the film massively as characters navigate the streets of LA at night. Resulting in a neo-noir like feel to the film. How the film used its initial premise, an erotic thriller that utilises sex to initiate compelling themes, is very clever.