The 4th Man

The film follows Gerard Reve, a morbid Catholic writer and bisexual alcoholic, as he navigates a dangerous attraction to Christine, a woman with a history of marrying men who meet tragic ends. The narrative unfolds after Gerard recognizes Christine's boyfriend, Herman, as someone he encountered at a train station, prompting him to seduce her with ulterior motives.

As Gerard investigates Christine's past, he uncovers a pattern of death surrounding her previous husbands, leading him to suspect that he may become her next victim. The film is imbued with themes of sexuality, Catholicism, and visions of death, making it a distinctive entry in Verhoeven's filmography. The story's unsettling tone and complex characters contribute to its appeal as a mystery thriller.