‘The Last Seduction’: An Underrated ’90s Erotic Thriller Gem

by

With international earnings of $143 million, The Housemaid is revitalizing the erotic thriller genre. This type of movie was hugely popular in the 1980s and ’90s, thanks to films like Body Heat, Fatal Attraction, and Basic Instinct, and it seems to be making a comeback. Now, with a sequel, The Housemaid’s Secret, in the works, viewers on Prime Video are in for what many are calling the most intensely seductive erotic thriller ever made.

Released in 1994, John Dahl’s film The Last Seduction is a steamy and thrilling neo-noir crime story starring Linda Fiorentino and Peter Berg. Renowned critic Roger Ebert hailed it as one of the year’s best films, ranking it at number five. If you loved the passionate drama of The Housemaid, you’ll likely be captivated by The Last Seduction.

‘The Last Seduction’s Lurid Premise, Explained


October Films

Directed by John Dahl (known for films like Rounders and Joy Ride), The Last Seduction is a stylish and sensual neo-noir thriller. The film centers on Bridget Gregory (Linda Fiorentino), a strong-willed and seductive woman who steals money from her husband, Clay (Bill Pullman), and escapes to upstate New York. There, she reinvents herself as Wendy Kroy and sets her sights on the trusting Mike Swale (Peter Berg) as her next victim.

Bridget unexpectedly turns the tables on Mike after his unwanted advance, captivating and seducing him with undeniable allure. She confidently takes control, fulfilling her own desires and manipulating him both physically and emotionally. Ultimately, she uses him as part of a larger, illicit plan.

Bridget confidently directs her relationships, whether it’s through intimate moments in public or private displays of affection. However, The Last Seduction isn’t simply about sensationalism; Bridget’s powerful allure and physical presence are what actually drive the film’s criminal storyline.

Linda Fiorentino Should Have Earned an Oscar Nod for ‘The Last Seduction’


October Films

Despite being less well-known than many other ’90s erotic thrillers, The Last Seduction received high praise from critics, earning a Metascore of 85 and a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While the plot is full of twists, Linda Fiorentino’s powerful performance was particularly celebrated. If you enjoyed The Housemaid, you’ll likely be captivated by Fiorentino’s portrayal of a cunning and morally ambiguous character who delivers sharp, witty dialogue.

Berg recounts that Fiorentino spontaneously created the entire chain-link fence scene just when the director was desperate for ideas. Despite being offered a body double, she insisted on performing the scene herself. She also came up with the memorable image of Bridget extinguishing a cigarette in an apple pie. Fiorentino’s complete dedication to the character is the reason her powerful performance continues to impact audiences, and many believe she deserved an Oscar nomination.

Subscribe for Smart Deep Dives on Erotic Thrillers

Unlock the newsletter for deeper coverage of erotic thrillers, standout performances, and film legacies. Subscribe to receive informed context, curated recommendations, and archival insights that place titles like The Last Seduction and The Housemaid in perspective.

By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s
Terms of Use
and
Privacy Policy
. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Unfortunately, because The Last Seduction was first shown on TV instead of in cinemas, the Academy Awards rules prevented Fiorentino from being nominated. If that rule hadn’t existed, she likely would have won the Oscar over Jessica Lange, who won for Blue Sky.

Despite the challenges, The Last Seduction did receive recognition, winning both an Independent Spirit Award and a New York Film Critics Circle Award. It also appeared on several ‘best of 1994’ lists, including being ranked #5 by Roger Ebert and #6 by Janet Maslin. If you enjoyed The Housemaid or are a fan of thrillers, this movie is definitely worth watching.

Read More

2026-01-12 23:05