Michael Douglas Says ‘Basic Instinct’ Sex Scenes Scandalized Cannes: ‘It Was a Little Overwhelming’
Posted May 17, 2023 by: Admin
Paul Verhoeven’s iconic film “Basic Instinct” took Cannes by storm in 1992, leaving audiences captivated and sparking a lively conversation about its boundary-pushing content. Michael Douglas, one of the stars of the film, recently shared his fond memories of that time, reflecting on the impact the movie had on viewers.
Douglas expressed his admiration for the unique nature of “Basic Instinct,” even by French standards. The film’s provocative sex scenes, displayed on the grand screen of the Grand Palais, left a lasting impression on the audience, creating a moment of collective introspection during a quiet dinner. Alongside Douglas, the talented cast, including Sharon Stone and Jeanne Tripplehorn, brought their exceptional performances to the screen, contributing to the film’s enduring legacy.
“Basic Instinct” weaved a gripping narrative, following the journey of a weary homicide detective, played by Douglas, as he investigates a successful crime writer portrayed by Stone. Initially given an NC-17 rating, the film’s impact led to a downgrade to an R rating following studio efforts. Notably, Stone’s unforgettable scene where she flashes detectives during a police interview remains an iconic and frequently referenced moment in contemporary cinema.
In recognition of his illustrious career and dedication to the art of filmmaking, Douglas received the esteemed Honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The announcement, made in March, celebrated his tremendous contributions to the industry. Reflecting on past controversies at Cannes, the actor shared anecdotes from his time at the festival, including the acceptance of “Behind the Candelabra” into the official competition in 2013. Despite being originally produced for HBO, the film received a French theatrical release to fulfill entry requirements, sparking some debate among festival-goers.
Douglas also acknowledged the evolving landscape of filmmaking, with streaming platforms now playing a significant role. He emphasized the increasing impact of streaming services on the industry, highlighting the importance of contracts that allow movies to have theatrical releases for at least a week. This shift reflects the festival’s evolving perspective on emerging technology and its influence on cinematic experiences.
Throughout his remarkable career, Douglas has graced Cannes with numerous remarkable films, including “The China Syndrome,” where he starred alongside Jane Fonda, the thought-provoking “Falling Down” directed by Joel Schumacher, and the award-winning Liberace biopic, “Behind the Candelabra.”
As the son of the legendary Hollywood icon Kirk Douglas, Michael Douglas has left an indelible mark on the film industry, winning two Academy Awards. His first triumph came as a producer for “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” in 1976, followed by a Best Actor win for his unforgettable portrayal in “Wall Street.” Accompanied by his wife, the talented Oscar winner Catherine Zeta-Jones, Douglas graced Cannes with his presence, celebrating a lifelong commitment to the art of cinema.
