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| “How did you know? How did you know I would respond to you in this way?” — Elizabeth (Kim Basinger).
A genre defining film which spawned countless imitations, “9 1/2 Weeks” is a daring and rather uncomfortable look at human sexual emotion. Audacious, bold, and uncompromising in one respect, and equally as disconcerting and raw. as it is dated, the appeal of the film will depend on one’s individual taste and tolerance. Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger play two strangers who meet and have an instant sexual attraction. They meet frequently, have impassioned sexual trysts and a immediate lust-based trust soon develops as Rourke pushes the boundaries with regard to how far Basinger’s Elizabeth is willing to go with their intense encounters. Rourke’s performance as John is a menacing one wherein the kick for him is much less about the physical and infinitely more about the psychological. Basinger is captivating to watch here as she travels the entire emotional gamut of excitement, lust, and passion; only to then break down and fall apart and question everything she has known within herself. By the final act, Elizabeth is so immersed in a relationship she cannot understand that she is unable to rationalize any action she takes or any emotion she feels. “9 1/2 Weeks” has always been more interesting to think about and analyze than ever actually watch. With its abundant use of sex and psychological violence, critics and film fans have debated its content and message for years. Is it merely objectification? Does it say something profound about human beings and the willingness to sacrifice principles for some form/any form of gratification? Ultimately, “9 1/2 Weeks” takes the easy way out by not really taking a stand in either direction. Then again, the lingering legacy of the film may render “9 1/2 Weeks” a much bigger success than I may be willing to give it credit for. |
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Should I See It? |
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| YES
Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke cemented careers based on their work here. So many films have stolen or copied elements of this film that it has earned its status as a defining film in the erotic thriller genre. Works equally well as a conversation starter and stopper. |
NO The subject matter is going to be rather off-putting for a large number of viewers. Arguments dismissing it as nothing more than a late-night cable movie that made it to theaters is not without some validity. It is dated, with weak dialogue, and st times, falls into absurdity. |
