Abstract
In this chapter, I want to consider how the cycle of 1990s blockbuster erotic thrillers was received by film critics and cultural commentators - in short, by review journalism. Demonstrating that the mere presence of a high concept does not guarantee good box-office, I consider the different reception fates of one of the successful of the erotic thriller event movies, namely Basic Instinct (1992), and an example of a 'failed blockbuster', namely Showgirls (1995). In order to illustrate the shifts in cultural status occasioned by critical discussion of these two specific movies, I draw on a range of contemporary film reviews, interviews and feature articles from critical, legitimate, popular and ephemeral media sources.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
