"Fatal Attraction" was controversial for its portrayal of infidelity, mental illness, and the consequences of a brief affair. The film depicted a married man, Dan, who has a one-night stand with Alex, who then becomes obsessively attached to him. Critics argued that it perpetuated negative stereotypes about women and mental health, particularly presenting Alex's character as a dangerous "crazy woman." Additionally, the film sparked discussions about the moral implications of extramarital relationships and the fear of female sexuality, contributing to its polarizing reception.

"Fatal Attraction" refers to a scenario where an individual becomes obsessively attached to another person, often leading to dangerous and destructive behavior. In the film, this concept is exemplified through the character Alex Forrest, who becomes fixated on Dan Gallagher after a brief affair. Her obsession escalates to stalking and violence, highlighting the potential consequences of infidelity and the darker side of romantic obsession. The term has since entered popular culture to describe unhealthy, obsessive relationships.

In "Fatal Attraction," Alex Forrest, portrayed by Glenn Close, exhibits behaviors consistent with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). This is characterized by intense emotional instability, fear of abandonment, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in maintaining stable relationships. Throughout the film, Alex's obsessive fixation on Dan Gallagher, played by Michael Douglas, leads to increasingly erratic and dangerous actions when she feels rejected. The portrayal highlights the complexities of mental health, though it has also been critiqued for its sensationalism.

Michael Douglas and Glenn Close had a professional and respectful working relationship during the filming of "Fatal Attraction." They both appreciated each other's talents and worked closely to portray their complex characters. However, there were reports of some tension on set due to the intense nature of their roles and the emotional scenes they had to perform. Overall, they maintained a collaborative atmosphere and have spoken positively about their experiences working together in interviews.