Fatal Attraction

****
Release Date: September 11th 1987

A married man's one night stand comes back to haunt him when that lover begins to stalk him and his family.

Director: Adrian Lyne (Indecent Proposal)

Starring: Michael Douglas, Glenn Close

There's a lot to take on board with Fatal Attraction. The main aspect? Don't cheat. It tells, or rather shows the backlash of infidelity. It should be called Fatal Consequences.

The first half sees Dan (Douglas) having his wicked way with work colleague Alex (Close). Hot and steamy is an understatement, yet guilt comes quickly, from characters and audience alike, as we initially suffer what he suffers. Knowing that nothing good will come of this means we feel the pain before Dan does. The second half just goes to show how individuals react, and the grass isn't usually greener on the other side. Alex begins to stalk Dan, and she'll do anything to catch her prey.

Fatal Attraction's story is tight, thrilling and gripping to the point of exhaustion. What keeps the momentum going is the connection between Dan and Alex. Alex's confidence and authority overpowers Dan and his senses. Douglas is sidelined by Glenn Close's riveting performance, who easily emasculates any resolve he tries to make.

Expect the unexpected; Alex goes from having a tantrum about being used and dumped (we can empathise with her at this point) to cutting her wrists and trashing Dan's apartment. The outcome of it all exceeds expectations. This isn't an enjoyable piece of cinema, it's an uncomfortable experience that teaches tough lessons.

Overview: A well presented film that's a struggle to watch. Close and Douglas are phenomenal.