Guide Note

Basic Instinct is a controversial 1992 thriller from director Paul Verhoeven about a woman (Sharon Stone) who is suspected of committing a brutal murder and the cop (Michael Douglas who is put in charge of the investigation. While the movie was both a critical and commercial success, it sparked a heated controversy for its violence, sexuality and portrayal of homosexuals. Although it was initially given an NC-17 rating, the final cut was alter to receive an R. Basic Instinct went on to make over $300 million, earn 2 Academy Award nominations, and launch the career of Sharon Stone.

Fast Facts

1. Tagline: "A brutal murder. A brilliant killer. A cop who can't resist the danger."
2. Release date: March 20, 1992
3. Rated: R
4. Running time: 123 minutes
5. Directed by: Paul Verhoeven
6. Written by: Joe Eszterhas
7. Starring: Sharon Stone and Michael Douglas
8. Followed by the sequel Basic Instinct 2
9. Received 2 Academy Award nominations and 2 Golden Globe nominations