Eszterhas had previously found success with “Flashdance” in 1983, and had penned family films (“Big Shots), comedies (“Checking Out”), and romances (“Hearts on Fire”), as well as psychological thrillers like “Jagged Edge” and “Betrayed” before writing “Basic Instinct,” which sold for a then jaw-dropping $3 million. Screenwriter and former Rolling Stone investigative reporter Joe Eszterhas wrote “Basic Instinct” in just 13 days, per Esquire. “Basic Instinct” Is Based on Real People “Basic Instinct” TriStar Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection
In honor of the film’s 30th anniversary, we uncovered all the elements that went into the film’s lasting legacy. Sharon Stone Says Paul Verhoeven Played Every Other ‘Basic Instinct’ Screen Test Against Hers - None Measured Up
