On this day, February 6, 1987, the psychological thriller Black Widow premiered in theaters. Directed by Bob Rafelson, the film starred Debra Winger as a determined federal investigator tracking down a mysterious woman, played by Theresa Russell, who has a habit of marrying wealthy men before they mysteriously die.
The film combines elements of suspense and noir storytelling, keeping audiences engaged as the cat-and-mouse game between the two lead characters intensifies. With a supporting cast that included Dennis Hopper, Nicol Williamson, Terry O’Quinn, and James Hong, Black Widow became a box office success, earning $25.2 million against a $10.5 million budget.
Fun fact: Sigourney Weaver was originally considered for the role of the black widow but ultimately passed on the opportunity.
Trivia question: What 1987 thriller starring Glenn Close and Michael Douglas became one of the highest-grossing films of the year and popularized the term “bunny boiler”?