05 - Unconscious Relational Templates in the Film ”9 1/2 Weeks”

Adrian Lyne's 1986 film "9 1/2 Weeks" depicts the disturbing sadomasochistic relationship between "John" (Mickey Rourke) and "Elizabeth" (Kim Basinger), two characters destined to form a treacherous union.  Elizabeth's unconscious relational template, formed by prior relational trauma and sustained by her own neurobiology, makes it almost impossible for her to extricate herself.  Ultimately, a painter reveals to Elizabeth the reality of her being "hooked."