‘Basic Instinct’ Writer Promises ‘Anti-Woke’ Reboot – Here’s Why

Catherine Tramell is coming back. Joe Eszterhas, the 80-year-old screenwriter who penned the original 1992 thriller Basic Instinct, confirmed that he is working on a Basic Instinct reboot with Amazon MGM. He described the new version as “anti-woke,” emphasizing that the story will not shy away from raw dialogue, provocative humor, and bold sexuality.

According to Fox News, Eszterhas explained that he wants the reboot to capture the same energy that made the first film so iconic. “She will be open about her sexuality, raunchy at times, funny, and iconoclastic,” he said about the return of Tramell. He also argued that modern filmmaking has been stripped of authenticity because of political correctness, and this new film aims to restore honesty in dialogue and character.

Sharon Stone’s Iconic Role and Lingering Impact

The Basic Instinct reboot has naturally raised questions about Sharon Stone reprising her breakout role as Catherine Tramell. Eszterhas admitted that he has not spoken to Stone about the project, but he hopes she will consider returning. “Catherine Tramell will be important, and I believe Sharon could bring the same iconic presence she did in the original,” he said.

Stone, however, appears hesitant. During a recent interview, she wished the project luck but questioned why it should be made at all. Her complicated history with Basic Instinct fuels that hesitation. While the movie skyrocketed her to fame, she revealed that it also limited her career opportunities. Casting directors often saw her only as Tramell, which, she explained, made it harder to secure varied roles despite critical acclaim for films like Casino.

A Divisive Legacy and New Vision

Stone has also been candid about the negative personal consequences tied to the first film. She once claimed the movie’s reputation even affected custody battles in her personal life, with critics labeling her unfairly because of her performance. Still, decades later, audiences continue to celebrate the film as a classic. Eszterhas pointed out that revival screenings often bring standing ovations for their most memorable lines.

Critics now view the original as a post-feminist statement, giving women the same sexual freedom as men. Eszterhas agrees, saying the story allowed female characters to claim their desires unapologetically. With the Basic Instinct reboot, he hopes to spark the same cultural conversation, but in a fresh and fearless way. His goal is to create a modern thriller that acknowledges the original’s legacy while challenging current cinematic trends.