Not only did Basic Instinct turn out to be a curse for actress Sharon Stone, but it also failed to bring her the financial success she had hoped for.
Released in 1992, Basic Instinct introduced viewers to an erotic thriller that would become a classic of the genre. However, the movie was surrounded by scandals, both during and after its release.
Sharon Stone Demanded $500k for Basic Instinct
Director Paul Verhoeven, known for his blockbusters RoboCop and Total Recall, demanded a hefty fee of $5 million for his work on Basic Instinct. Additionally, another $14 million had to be paid to Michael Douglas, who was cast as the male lead.
Other actors, such as Harrison Ford and Robert De Niro, had declined the role due to the explicit nature of the film. The film company had already spent over $20 million before shooting even began.
Finding the actress to play the main villain proved to be a challenge. Julia Roberts and Meg Ryan were among those who turned down the role. Eventually, Verhoeven decided to approach Sharon Stone, with whom he had previously worked on Total Recall.
Stone, despite not being an experienced actress at the time, agreed to take on the role for a modest salary of $500,000.
One of the most iconic scenes in Basic Instinct, the interrogation scene featuring Catherine Tramell at the police station, was not originally in the script. It was suggested by the director himself.
Verhoeven convinced Stone to film the scene without wearing underwear, claiming that the spotlights would make it shine. Stone agreed, unaware that the scene would be included in the final cut.
She discovered this during a press screening when she realized that the camera had captured everything under her skirt.
The Aftermath of Basic Instinct for Sharon Stone
The aftermath of Basic Instinct brought a series of difficult events into Stone’s life. During a custody battle with her ex-husband, her participation in the explicit film became a critical argument against her.
As a result, custody of their son was granted to her husband. Despite these challenges, Stone managed to navigate through them and continue her acting career.
Sharon Stone’s journey after Basic Instinct serves as a testament to her resilience and determination.
She faced adversity both professionally and personally, but she never let it deter her, Over the years, Stone has proven herself as a talented actress in a variety of roles, showcasing her versatility and skill.
While Basic Instinct may have had its share of controversies and setbacks, it remains a significant milestone in Sharon Stone’s career. She has used her experiences to grow and evolve as an artist, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry.
Sharon Stone’s story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, true talent and determination can lead to success and personal triumph.
Via Startefacts
