The Fourth Man (De Vierde Man)

Deep solo dive into Paul Verhoeven's 1983 Dutch masterpiece "The Fourth Man" (De vierde man), arguably his best film from his Dutch era! This psychological erotic thriller, adapted from Gerard Reve's provocative novel, blends surrealism, Catholic iconography (Mary, Jesus, spiders, Delilah/Sphinx), homoeroticism, unreliable narration, and gory horror. We explore the story of alcoholic bisexual writer Gerard Reve (Jeroen Krabbé) who suspects seductive widow Christine (Renée Soutendijk) is a black widow killer targeting him as her fourth victim , or is it all in his mad, guiltridden head?Tying into Verhoeven's real life "cancellation" in the Netherlands (post-Spetters backlash, funding denials, cultural jealousy/"act normal" mentality, producer Rob Houwer feuds), how this film was his defiant triumph, previews Basic Instinct (film noir remake), and showcases Jan de Bont's stunning cinematography. 100% on Rotten Tomatoes for good reason, surreal visions, blood drenched symbolism, and ambiguity that leaves you questioning reality!Spoiler-heavy scene by scene analysis included. If you're into Verhoeven, erotic thrillers, Dutch cinema, or psychological horror, this is for you. Let me know your thoughts, is this his best Dutch film?