While Netflix always has new options to watch on its platform, sometimes older movies get the chance to become popular and reach a new audience. That seems the case for one of the trending titles in the US right now: “Fear,” the 1996 thriller starring Mark Walhberg and Reese Witherspoon.
According to FlixPatrol, the movie is the tenth most watched in the US this week. James Foley, who is now best-known for directing the two “50 Shades of Grey” sequels, helmed the film. It was written by Christopher C. Crowe, who has had a prolific career in film and TV, thanks to titles such as “Manhunt,” “The Watchers” or “Seven Days.”
Apart from Wahlberg and Witherspoon, the movie starred William Petersen, Alyssa Milano and Amy Brenneman. At the time of its release, “Fear” was panned by critics but it became a sleeper-hit at the box office, grossing $20 million.
‘Fear,’ a cult thriller film from the 90s
The movie, which was compared to “Fatal Attraction” by its own producer, became a teen sensation, mainly thanks to the “idol” status of its young stars. The story follows a wealthy 16-year-old girl who starts dating a good-looking man named David, who turns out to be an abusive partner.
Despite the initial reaction, the movie now is considered one of the best teen thrillers. And, apart from the performances of its leads, the movie has received praise for the tension between the characters, and the intensity of the sequences.
On the other hand, it didn’t hurt for the movie’s popularity that Wahlberg, who was 25 at the time of the release, and Witherspoon, 20, were dating in real life. However, the film could have gone very differently, as Leonardo DiCaprio was also considered for the role of David, but he ultimately didn’t believe he was right for it.
A ‘Fear’ remake is in the works
In 2022, it was confirmed that Peacock was working on a series based on the film. The show is being developed by Jessica Goldberg, who created Hulu’s series “The Path.” The series is supposed to be set in the present day, as well as put a “modern” spin into the story.