Michael Douglas has been immortalized in Hollywood after countless iconic films throughout his career. He has been an influential figure in the film industry, starring in many projects that strayed away from social expectations. Three films stand out in his filmography; Fatal Attraction, Basic Instinct, and Disclosure. All of these showcase their female characters in competent, powerful, and central roles, which was unheard of at the time.
This is not to say that these films are feminist masterpieces, but they were certainly ahead of their time. Making such movies in the 80s and 90s required a lot of effort and persuasion, as at every point, a question would get asked to the creators: Who is going to watch a movie about women in dominant roles?
While a lot of studios and actors would have turned away, it would seem that Douglas was even more interested in being a part of these movies because of the controversy they stirred. An interview from 1994 might act as an explanation for why this may have been the case.
Michael Douglas was Professionally Curious
In 1994, Michael Douglas gave an interview to The Morning Call, where he touched on topics that were quite controversial at the time; sexism and feminism. He talked about how he was very interested in the rift and dynamics between the sexes and found everyone to be frustrated with the roles they were given in society.
“I think there’s no doubt about it that I’m interested in the gender wars,” Douglas said. “I do think the sexes are having a tough time in their respective roles. At the end of the millennium, I think men are confused. Women are confused. There’s a dance going on. I hope we can get it resolved.”
In Fatal Attraction, Basic Instinct, and Disclosure, Douglas’ characters are constantly at the mercy of their female protagonists. They are also morally conflicting characters that viewers will either immediately empathize with or never be able to.
“I like the stories about moral dilemmas,” Douglas added. “I’m interested in everyday people who struggle with real-life dilemmas – be it lust or greed or gluttony or whatever. They interest me. For some reason, audiences are able to identify with me and forgive me.”
Adding to this, he revealed that playing such characters that explore emotions in the most human way possible; as flawed people. It is perhaps because of this perspective that he liked starring in these three films.
Michael Douglas’ Experiences as an Older Father
Michael Douglas has been married to Catherine Zeta-Jones for 24 years, with the pair tying the knot in 2000. They now have two children together, deciding to take such a step later in life than the societal norm. He was 58 when he had his second child with the actress, and although he would not have it any other way, it would seem that there have been some challenges that come with being an older parent.
Speaking to the Telegraph, the actor revealed that he was glad that he grew as a person and decided to have more children when he had a better understanding of what the responsibility meant. His first son from his first marriage, Cameron Douglas, was forced to suffer due to his father being too busy with his career.
“Cameron suffered a lot from that time . . . I was just overwhelmed and overloaded by my work. And family was really taking third place after work, our country and then the family, as opposed to when Catherine and I got together.” he went on, “And you’ve done enough work already that you were looking more to enjoy the opportunity and the kids,”
Not wanting to repeat such a mistake, he was cautious when he had more children. However, the experience seems to have been extremely good for Douglas; as long as teachers are not involved. It would seem that the actor went to visit one of his children’s universities to participate in Parents’ Day.
“This is not grandfather’s day, this is parents’ day. I say ‘I am a parent!’,” he said. “That was a rough one.”
When Douglas reached there, he was told that the day was there to celebrate parents and not grandparents. It is safe to assume that being called old in such a way was not a fun experience for the actor.
