A diva’s demands

What’s all the fuss about a “Basic Instinct” sequel and all the incidentals that Sharon Stone has written into her contracts (“Tales From the Hot Seat,” July 18)? If the studios or production companies are stupid enough to accede to her exorbitant demands, then they should suffer the consequences.

Since “Basic Instinct” was released in 1992, the actress has appeared in 17 additional motion pictures, and with the exception of “Casino” (1995), all have failed miserably at the box office.

Stone has virtually no clout with ticket buyers but has a way of generating publicity at awards ceremonies and on talk shows. She is the perfect example of fluff taking precedence over style and substance.

Fred Landesman

Chatsworth