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Fatal Attraction (1987)

1987 • 1h 59m • Drama, Thriller • R
On September 22, 2026
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John Chard on Fatal Attraction

9/10 · Sep 6, 2014

I won't be ignored, Dan! *** This review may contain spoilers *** A seemingly content husband, Dan Gallagher, succumbs to Alex Forrest’s allure and engages in a night of intense passion with her. The problem is that Alex proves to be somewhat unstable, and a woman seeking revenge can become an absolute nightmare. I recently watched this huge hit from the 80s—the highest-grossing film of 1987—and it still has the same impact as when it was first released in the late 80s, becoming both a major success and a cultural phenomenon that generated significant discussion. I’m disappointed by its relatively average rating because its importance and boldness should be recognized rather than dismissed with claims about it being merely a product of its time. It's interesting to consider how many films were inspired by *Fatal Attraction*. The movie was a massive hit because it offered audiences something different: the unusual scenario of a man being stalked by an unpredictable woman. Credit goes to screenwriter James Dearden for building tension gradually, like a coiled spring about to release. As the plot progresses and Alex Forrest’s revenge—fueled by a sense of betrayal—intensifies, viewers find themselves emotionally conflicted regarding their feelings toward her character. Dan has betrayed his beautiful wife and child, so he deserves what's coming to him, doesn't he? Alex is correct in saying that he had his fun and can now move on, but the filmmakers cleverly point out that Alex initiated the pursuit knowing Dan was happily married; she fully understood the situation. This creates a skillfully crafted thriller that maximizes suspense, culminating in a truly shocking conclusion. I’m glad American test audiences rejected the original ending—a more somber version where Alex commits suicide and implicates Dan for her murder—because while the current ending may lose some of its impact with repeated viewings, it still packs quite a punch. Glenn Close is superb as Alex; playing against type, she convincingly portrays a disturbed individual, skillfully blending sadness with foolishness. Michael Douglas also delivers a performance of depth, though he’s overshadowed by Close's captivating portrayal. He remains believable throughout the film and, I suspect, pleased female viewers that there was no sign of the physique that frightened them in *Basic Instinct* five years later! This film, alongside *Wall Street*, would elevate Douglas to major A-list status, which he certainly earned. Anne Archer portrays Beth Gallagher, Dan’s wounded wife; she is beautiful and attractive, but those thoughts quickly fade as she delivers a remarkable two-layered performance. With a strong script and astute direction by Adrian Lyne, *Fatal Attraction* remains one of the finest thrillers of the 80s. It was widely discussed back then, and it shouldn't be forgotten now. 9/10

Source on TMDB