The scene:

After going down on an appreciative Stone, Douglas climbs on top. Finally she takes control, binding his wrists and straddling him to thrash out a shuddering climax. The power games that inform the pair's relationship add extra tension to this graphic scene that, luckily for Douglas, doesn't end with an icepick embedded in his skull.

The turn-on:
It's rare to see a man going down on a woman in a mainstream film. But Hellyer was particularly impressed that Douglas makes occasional eye contact while he's at work. "People sometimes forget that during oral sex," says Hellyer. "But it's nice as the receiver to know that your partner is really getting off on what they're doing."

Raunchy optional extras such as wrist restraints and mirrors keep things simmering along nicely. But importantly, says Hellyer, the scene is also infused with intimacy. She stresses that it's particularly vital to provide loving reassurance when you're indulging in something a bit risqué like the low-level bondage here. "There's lots of kissing in this scene, which is so important - often in longer-term relationships the kissing drops off."

Your sequel:
Hellyer reckons you can learn a lot from the Basic Instinct props department. "If you are planning something a bit different the important message here is preparation." The sex may feel really spontaneous in this scene, but that's only because they've got everything organised beforehand. "Sharon Stone has got the restraints ready, she doesn't suddenly go, 'Oh, I wonder if there's something I can tie him up with' and hop off to rummage through her wardrobe. Make sure you have condoms, lube, towels and tissues nearby. And if you have some toys you like then make sure they're readily accessible."

Mirrors are an easy way to give your sex life an extra dimension. "Watching yourself in the mirror can be really erotic if the lights are low," says Hellyer. "It increases the visual stimulus." By sticking a mirror by the bed or, if your DIY skills are up to it, on the ceiling, you've suddenly got access to multiple views. "So, for example, if you're behind your partner and you're facing the mirror, you can see her expression, which you wouldn't normally see."