Sharon Stone: How “Basic Instinct” Turned Her into a Sex Symbol Overnight
Sharon Stone, known for her iconic role in “Basic Instinct,” recently opened up about the impact of the film and how it transformed her into a sex symbol almost overnight. In an interview with CNN’s Chris Wallace, Stone revealed the immense celebrity status she gained after the release of the movie.
Before “Basic Instinct,” Stone was a relative unknown in Hollywood. However, everything changed after that fateful weekend. As Stone recalls, she went into the weekend as an ordinary actress and emerged as a massive star by Tuesday, once everyone had seen the film.
The film’s infamous interrogation scene, where Stone’s character flashes her vagina, played a significant role in cementing her status as a sex symbol. It became a pivotal moment in cinematic history and defined Stone’s career.
Wallace rightly acknowledges that this scene changed Stone’s life forever. However, the full extent of its impact was unknown until now. Stone shared a story of going out to run an errand the week after “Basic Instinct” was released and experiencing people literally leaping at her in the streets of Los Angeles. It wasn’t just Stone herself that people were attracted to; they even dogpiled her car at stoplights. The situation became so overwhelming that Stone didn’t know if she should drive away.
This isn’t the first time Stone has discussed “Basic Instinct.” She has publicly expressed mixed feelings about the film, particularly regarding the infamous scene. Stone claimed that she felt duped into the moment as she had been reassured by the crew and producers that nothing explicit would be visible onscreen.
Despite her mixed feelings, Stone’s portrayal of Catherine Tramell continues to have a lasting impact on popular culture even after all these years. Whether viewed as good or bad, her performance left an indelible mark on the zeitgeist.
The legacy of “Basic Instinct” goes beyond the controversy surrounding its explicit content. The film itself is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of sexuality and power dynamics. Stone’s character, Catherine Tramell, is an enigmatic and fascinating figure who captivated audiences with her allure and intelligence.
The success of “Basic Instinct” propelled Stone into the realm of A-list celebrities. She became one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses, with numerous award nominations and roles in films such as “Casino,” for which she earned an Academy Award nomination.
Stone’s career has been filled with ups and downs, but her performance in “Basic Instinct” remains a defining moment. It showcased her talent and versatility as an actress, solidifying her place in film history.
Beyond her acting prowess, Stone has also used her platform to advocate for various causes. She is a passionate philanthropist and has been involved in activism related to HIV/AIDS, children’s health, and women’s rights.
In conclusion, Sharon Stone’s role in “Basic Instinct” catapulted her into instant stardom and turned her into a sex symbol. The infamous interrogation scene became a defining moment in cinematic history and forever changed Stone’s life. Despite her mixed feelings about the film, Stone’s portrayal of Catherine Tramell left an indelible mark on popular culture. Through her enduring career and philanthropic efforts, Stone continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood.