"Sliver" feels like one of those movies, not uncommon in the early to mid 90's, where the film-makers tried to add as much sexual-tension as they possibly could. Of course much of this is because of the success of "Basic Instinct".
The main problem with this approach is that i feel it warrants a sure hand. Otherwise you'll end up with a movie that lacks drive and in worst case just becomes silly. Unfortunately "Sliver" both lacks drive AND becomes silly. While i feel that "Basic Instinct" is a good thriller i don't know if trying to copy it is such a good idea. "Basic Instinct" worked mainly because of the chemistry between Sharon Stone and Michael Douglas in the two leads. Paul Verhoevens directing was mostly intent on creating appropriate moods and settings for their encounters. Here on the other hand we have a (seemingly much less dedicated) Sharon Stone having no chemistry whatsoever with William Baldwin. The fact that Baldwin is not even close to Michael Douglas acting-wise doesn't help either. But the failed "sexy" approach is not the only thing wrong with this movie. There is also the insanely crappy story of murders happening in a house full of cameras, and still no-one knows who the killer is.
In the end "Sliver" fails where "Basic Instinct" succeeds. The era of "sexy thrillers" has passed now fortunately, and this is one of it's biggest disappointments (considering actors, budget and ambition). I rate this 3/10.
The main problem with this approach is that i feel it warrants a sure hand. Otherwise you'll end up with a movie that lacks drive and in worst case just becomes silly. Unfortunately "Sliver" both lacks drive AND becomes silly. While i feel that "Basic Instinct" is a good thriller i don't know if trying to copy it is such a good idea. "Basic Instinct" worked mainly because of the chemistry between Sharon Stone and Michael Douglas in the two leads. Paul Verhoevens directing was mostly intent on creating appropriate moods and settings for their encounters. Here on the other hand we have a (seemingly much less dedicated) Sharon Stone having no chemistry whatsoever with William Baldwin. The fact that Baldwin is not even close to Michael Douglas acting-wise doesn't help either. But the failed "sexy" approach is not the only thing wrong with this movie. There is also the insanely crappy story of murders happening in a house full of cameras, and still no-one knows who the killer is.
In the end "Sliver" fails where "Basic Instinct" succeeds. The era of "sexy thrillers" has passed now fortunately, and this is one of it's biggest disappointments (considering actors, budget and ambition). I rate this 3/10.