Happy Tuesday, dear readers! Each week, we’ll rank the top 10 films in a specific category. While we aim to tie these lists to big releases, that won’t always be the case. Our goal? For you to enjoy, share your own lists, and join in on a lively, friendly debate. This is an interactive space to build community here at The Contending.
No fancy intros, no long essays – just a category and a list. Sound good?
Halina Reijn’s Babygirl is set to release on Christmas Day after opening in limited release this Friday. While I’m not quite sure it is the perfect holiday film for the family, it’s certainly one that has critics stirring. Nicole Kidman delivers a powerhouse performance as Romy, a high-powered businesswoman who surrenders to her overwhelming, darker desires. Filled with deep and intricate emotional and psychological layers, Babygirl is an exciting watch, and Kidman is worthy of the praise she is receiving.
This week, our Top Ten Tuesday theme is erotic thrillers in honor of Reijn’s film. The genre has evolved significantly over the years, from its early stages as subtle, atmospheric films – often showing up in the film noir genre starring a classic femme fatale trope and filled with sexual undertones and illicit relationships – to a rise of sexual liberation and sensationalism in more boundary-pushing stories.
Let’s drive into the mystery and reveal the ten best erotic thrillers of all time:
10. Basic Instinct (1992)
9. Gilda (1946)
8. Fatal Attraction (1987)
7. Lust, Caution (2007)
6. Mulholland Drive (2001)
5. The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946)
4. Body Heat (1981)
3. Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
2. Double Indemnity (1944)
1. Vertigo (1958)
Gilda (1946) for all ranks. The moment we first meet Ms Hayworth as she swings her hair and answers "Are you decent?" with her "Me?" + that look in her eyes, seals it.
Great list. Hard to argue with any of the selections, but I will. I’m not sure what I would remove from your list, maybe “Eyes Wide Shut” and “Basic Instinct”, but maybe not. I’d add:
– The Last Seduction
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– The Paperboy (Kidman’s prison visit scene is absolutely insane)
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