Indecent Proposal, released in theaters on April 9, 1993, remains a captivating and controversial film that sparks conversation decades after its release. While its premise is undeniably provocative, the film transcends mere sensationalism to explore complex themes of love, trust, and the corrosive power of money.
Robert Redford, with his undeniable charisma, plays John Gage, the enigmatic billionaire who makes the titular offer. He imbues the character with a sense of both allure and underlying darkness, leaving the audience to grapple with their own feelings about his actions.
Demi Moore and Woody Harrelson shine as Diana and David Murphy, a married couple who were high school sweethearts whose relationship is tested by Gage’s offer. Moore portrays Diana’s internal struggle with a raw intensity, capturing her conflicted emotions with nuance and depth. Harrelson, meanwhile, brings a relatable everyman quality to David, conveying his anger, frustration, and ultimately, his love for Diana with genuine emotion. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, making their relationship feel authentic and relatable.
Oliver Platt provides a welcome dose of humor as David’s friend, adding a layer of relatability to the film’s heightened drama.
Billy Bob Thornton, in an early role, makes what is essentially a cameo, but a memorable cameo inside the casino.
Adrian Lyne’s direction is characteristically stylish and atmospheric, creating a sense of heightened reality that enhances the film’s emotional impact. The film’s visuals are lush and evocative, drawing viewers into the characters’ opulent world while simultaneously highlighting the stark contrast between wealth and emotional vulnerability.
Robert Redford and Demi Moore in Indecent Proposal (Photo/Paramount Pictures)
Reception for Indecent Proposal
Indecent Proposal grossed $18.4 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office. The film stayed atop the box office for its first four weeks of release before falling to third place the weekend of May 7-9 behind Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story and Dave.
The film would gross $266.6 million worldwide en route to becoming the sixth highest-grossing film of 1993.
Owen Gleiberman wrote on Redford in his EW review: “Like Michael Douglas’ Gordon Gekko, he has that aura of money that’s almost tactile — even in his dark suit, he glows — and he speaks with the dry enticement of someone who has had too much of what he wants and now gets his kicks by testing people, living through their experiences.”
He added “Like Lyne’s high-gloss S&M fantasy, 9 1/2 Weeks, Indecent Proposal creates a chic tableau of naughtiness and then says, ‘You’d love to be doing this, wouldn’t you?'”
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review, saying “Like Pretty Woman, a movie it resembles in subtle ways, Indecent Proposal is a fantasy about characters who are allowed to try out amorality and see if they like it.”
Legacy
Indecent Proposal raises intriguing questions about love, money, and the nature of relationships. It forces the audience to confront their own values and beliefs, and to consider the potential consequences of their choices. The movie is a product of the 90’s, and the way it handles the ideas presented are very much a reflection of that era.
