Angelina Jolie has captivated audiences throughout her career with her incredible performances and deep dedication to her craft. One film that left a lasting impression on her was The Bone Collector (1999), a psychological thriller that paired her with Denzel Washington. While the movie received mixed reviews from critics, it became a significant part of Jolie’s career, showcasing her ability to portray complex and intense characters.
A Psychological Thriller That Left an Impact
Following the success of Seven (1995), Hollywood studios sought to create similar gripping thrillers. Universal Pictures responded with The Bone Collector, an adaptation of Jeffery Deaver’s 1997 crime novel. The film featured a stellar cast, including Academy Award winners Angelina Jolie and Denzel Washington, as well as Oscar nominee Queen Latifah.
Set in New York City, The Bone Collector follows Lincoln Rhyme, a brilliant but quadriplegic detective played by Washington, and Amelia Donaghy, a young patrol officer played by Jolie. The duo works together to track down a dangerous serial criminal, with Amelia serving as Lincoln’s eyes and ears in the field while he guides her remotely from his home.
Jolie has often spoken about how deeply she connected with the story when she first read the script. She described feeling completely immersed in the suspense, unable to put it down. “It scared me to death,” she once admitted. “I couldn’t stop reading it, and when I finally put it down, I couldn’t forget about it. It haunted me.”
Building an Unconventional Connection on Screen
One of the most unique aspects of The Bone Collector is the dynamic between its two lead characters. Unlike many thrillers where a romance is built through physical chemistry, Lincoln and Amelia’s relationship is developed through intellect and emotional depth. Lincoln’s physical limitations prevent any traditional romantic interactions, which creates a powerful connection based on trust, intelligence, and mutual respect.
Angelina Jolie has praised this aspect of the film, explaining that the idea of creating a strong bond through conversation and understanding was deeply compelling. In an interview with Dark Horizons, she highlighted how intriguing it was to play a role where attraction stemmed from the mind rather than physical presence.
Jolie described her character’s evolving partnership with Washington’s Lincoln Rhyme as one of the most interesting elements of the film. She emphasized that working alongside an actor of Washington’s caliber pushed her to bring more depth and authenticity to her performance.
Overcoming Challenges on Set
Despite her enthusiasm for the film, Jolie has acknowledged that making The Bone Collector was a demanding experience. She found the role mentally exhausting and often questioned whether she was capable of handling such an intense character.
“It was really lonely, and I went a bit nuts,” she admitted. “From the beginning, I felt as if I was not capable of doing this, of leading a film, of being responsible for this character, of physically handling the demands of the role, and of portraying a determined police officer.”
The psychological toll of playing Amelia Donaghy left Jolie feeling overwhelmed at times, but she remained committed to bringing authenticity to the role. Her dedication paid off, as her portrayal of the ambitious and determined officer was widely praised by audiences.
A Box Office Success Despite Mixed Reviews
When The Bone Collector was released on November 5, 1999, it received a mixed reception from critics. Some praised the performances of Jolie and Washington, while others felt the film lacked originality compared to previous thrillers in the same genre. However, despite the critical response, the movie was a commercial success. It grossed approximately $151.5 million worldwide, significantly surpassing its $48 million budget.
Over time, the film has gained a loyal following, with many viewers appreciating its suspenseful storytelling, strong performances, and unique character dynamics.
Rumors of a Sequel
In June 2023, reports surfaced that a sequel to The Bone Collector might be in development, with both Angelina Jolie and Denzel Washington expected to reprise their roles. The possibility of revisiting these characters over two decades later has excited fans, especially considering the chemistry the two actors shared on screen.
While no official confirmation has been made, the idea of a sequel brings intrigue, particularly in how Lincoln and Amelia’s dynamic would evolve in a modern setting. Given the success of recent revivals and sequels in Hollywood, a return to this compelling thriller could offer new opportunities for storytelling and character exploration.
Jolie’s Legacy in Psychological Thrillers
The Bone Collector is just one example of Jolie’s ability to bring intensity and depth to psychological thrillers. Over the years, she has continued to take on roles that challenge her both mentally and emotionally, proving her versatility as an actress.
Beyond acting, Jolie has also made a name for herself as a director, humanitarian, and advocate for global causes. Her ability to balance a successful film career with meaningful humanitarian work has earned her immense respect from both the entertainment industry and the public.
Final Thoughts
Angelina Jolie’s experience filming The Bone Collector remains an important chapter in her career. The film’s unique approach to suspense and its emotionally driven characters continue to make it a standout in the thriller genre.
As speculation about a sequel continues, fans eagerly await any updates on whether Jolie and Washington will return to their iconic roles. Regardless of what the future holds, The Bone Collector remains a testament to Jolie’s talent and dedication to her craft.
For those who appreciate gripping thrillers and character-driven storytelling, revisiting The Bone Collector is a reminder of why this film still holds significance more than two decades after its release.
