Body of Evidence is a controversial and provocative erotic thriller that generated significant buzz upon its release on Jan. 15, 1993. Madonna delivers a sexually charged performance as Rebecca Carlson, a seductress accused of murdering her wealthy lover Andrew Marsh in an incident involving bondage and homemade pornography.
Willem Dafoe co-stars as Frank Dulaney, the defense attorney tasked with proving her innocence.
The film features a star-studded cast, including Joe Mantegna as District Attorney Robert Garrett and Anne Archer as Joanne Braslow, Marsh’s former lover and a key witness against Rebecca in the trial.
Julianne Moore (The Fugitive) stars as Frank’s wife, Sharon Dulaney, who confronts him about his affair with Rebecca.
Jürgen Prochnow, Stan Shaw, Charles Hallahan, Jeff Perry, and Frank Langella round out the supporting cast.
Body of Evidence is a visually striking film, with director Uli Edel utilizing a sensual and atmospheric style. However, the film’s focus on eroticism and its provocative themes may not appeal to all audiences and some may find the film’s explicit content and sexually charged scenes to be gratuitous or exploitative.
Willem Dafoe and Madonna in Body of Evidence (Photo/MGM)
Reception for Body of Evidence
Body of Evidence grossed $7.4 million on its opening weekend, placing it at No.5 at the domestic box office, trailing Aladdin ($10.9 million), A Few Good Men ($8.7 million), Alive ($8.6 million) and Nowhere to Run ($8.2 million) starring Jean-Claude Van Damme.
The film would gross a disappointing $13.3 million in its theatrical run.
Gene Siskel called the film “stupid and empty” in his review.
Roger Ebert gave the film one half out of four stars in his review, saying the film is “an excruciatingly incompetent entry in the Basic Instinct genre, filled with lines that only a screenwriter could love, and burdened with a plot that confuses mystery with confusion.”
Legacy
Body of Evidence is a controversial and divisive film that will not be for everyone. However, it’s undeniable that it’s a visually striking and audacious work that showcases Madonna’s willingness to push boundaries.
