“Basic Instinct” Screenwriter Joe Eszterhas Says He Was Paid $1.5M to Stay Away from the Film’s ‘Really Bad’ 2006 Sequel

Joe Eszterhas, the screenwriter renowned for his work on the original “Basic Instinct,” recently shared his thoughts on the film’s much-criticised sequel released in 2006. He revealed that he was paid a substantial sum of $1.5 million to not be involved with the project, which he described as “really bad” and “bland.” In a candid interview with Interview magazine, Eszterhas expressed his disappointment over the sequel’s failure to capture the creative spirit of the original film, which starred Sharon Stone and Michael Douglas.

Originally released in 1992, “Basic Instinct” sparked considerable debate for its bold content and complex characters. However, Eszterhas claims that the sequel took a different route, transforming the narrative into a straightforward police procedural that fell flat with audiences. “They set it in London and the whole piece was really boring,” he remarked, lamenting the absence of the humour and wit that characterised the first film.

The screenwriter contrasted the sequel’s approach with the original’s willingness to embrace controversy. “It didn’t have any spice, earth, or wit,” he noted, suggesting that the decision-makers sought to avoid the contentious themes that had contributed to the original’s success. “Nobody said this to me, but I didn’t think they wanted to take the kind of creative chances the original did,” he elaborated, indicating a sense of resignation regarding the direction of the sequel.

Despite what he considered a lacklustre effort in the 2006 film, Eszterhas remains optimistic and has embarked on a new project aimed at rebooting “Basic Instinct.” He hinted that this latest iteration will once again evoke the kind of strong reactions the original garnered. The screenwriter believes that the new film promises to be “controversial,” mirroring the discussions and debates that surrounded its predecessor long before its release.

Eszterhas described his recent meetings with producers to pitch ideas for the reboot, declaring that his primary goal is to make the experience “fun and enjoyable.” He acknowledged that reactions to the dialogue might vary significantly, with some laughing and others feeling affronted. “But even those who are pissed off will secretly enjoy it, even if they don’t publicly,” he teased about the anticipated response to the film.

One aspect of the reboot that excites Eszterhas is the return of Stone’s character alongside the introduction of a new character, her daughter named Jezebel. While he refrained from giving too many details away, he teased audiences with promises of shocking moments that would provoke strong reactions. His intention is for viewers to ask themselves, “Holy s—, did I hear that right?” as they engage with the narrative.

Eszterhas further commented on the current state of filmmaking, suggesting that modern films have become too safe and formulaic. “One of the things happening in filmmaking today is films have become more tepid and whitened,” he remarked, assuring fans that his script for the new iteration will break away from this trend and reclaim the provocative edge that made the original a cultural phenomenon.

The original “Basic Instinct,” directed by Paul Verhoeven, explored the tumultuous relationship between crime novelist Catherine Tramell, played by Stone, and detective Nick Curran, portrayed by Douglas. It was notorious not only for its explicit content but also for its complex portrayals of sexuality and desire against the backdrop of a murder investigation.

As anticipation builds surrounding the reboot, Eszterhas maintains a firm stance that embracing controversy is essential to filmmaking. He is keenly aware that the original film’s successful box office performance was bolstered by the controversies it ignited in the lead-up to its premiere. “I’m not afraid of controversy,” he declared, echoing the sentiments that made the original film a significant talking point and a landmark in cinematic history.

The new adaptation of “Basic Instinct” is still in development, but Eszterhas’s willingness to infuse modern themes into the narrative suggests that it could once again capture the imaginations—and perhaps the ire—of audiences around the world. With his commitment to delivering an engaging and provocative story, the reboot certainly has high expectations resting on its shoulders.