Since its famed introduction of the “boiled bunny,” Fatal Attraction (1987) established itself as one of American cinema’s most controversial films. This insightful new book surveys the film's formal features and its ideological impact, paying special attention to the film’s signature mix of sexuality, fear, and family values.

• Features detailed breakdowns of the formal techniques the film employs to create suspense, such as turning ordinary household objects into agents of terror
• Considers the film’s mixed-genre status as a thriller, melodrama, horror picture, and film noir
• Offers an explanation and analysis of the cultural storm ignited by the film, especially due to its treatment of single career women
• Investigates the film’s handling of extramarital sexuality, pregnancy, birth control, and AIDS
• Discusses the film’s lasting role in shaping American gender politics

Suzanne Leonard is a Assistant Professor of English at Simmons College.