The truth is, I failed to get into Basic instinct. As I tried to watch it for the first time, a distinct feeling that the film was made for men and not me soon came over me. Of course, I’m not suggesting that one can’t enjoy a movie targeted at the opposite gender.

It’s just that, similarly to Breaking Bad, which, shockingly to many, I quit at episode five/six, the story didn’t sufficiently appeal to me. I couldn’t connect with it or the characters.

I tried my best to watch director Paul Verhoeven’s infamous detective drama/crime/thriller for more than 30 minutes, but I had to stop. It may be that I simply wasn’t in the right mood to take in a story about a violent police detective (Michael Douglas) who’s investigating a brutal murder that may involve a manipulative/seductive novelist (Sharon Stone).

Or, it could be that the film is ‘of its time.’ Therefore, my tastes, interests, and needs have evolved. Either way, I suspect it didn’t help that the detective movies I’d watched most recently turned out to be less than great. I.e. The Postcard Killings (2020) and Hangman (2017).

Still, one day I may re-attempt Verhoeven’s film. Do you think it would be worth retrying? Are you a fan of Basic instinct? Kindly release your thoughts in the comments below.

Happy Film Loving,

G