Though The Bone Collector didn’t wow critics, it left a deep mark on Angelina Jolie — both professionally and personally.
In the wake of Seven‘s success, Universal Pictures responded with The Bone Collector (1999), a gritty serial killer thriller based on Jeffery Deaver’s novel. Starring Denzel Washington as Lincoln Rhyme, a brilliant but quadriplegic detective, and Angelina Jolie as rookie cop Amelia Donaghy, the film explored a dark, puzzle-like hunt for a sadistic killer across New York City.
Despite his physical limitations, Lincoln’s mind remained razor-sharp, guiding Amelia through harrowing investigations. Their connection, built on intellect rather than physicality, became a unique kind of intimacy — something Jolie later called “a huge turn-on.” Reflecting on one particular scene, she even described it as “the best sex I ever had,” referring to the deep emotional bond, not any physical interaction.
Jolie recalled being haunted by the script, reading it alone and unable to put it down. But the shoot wasn’t easy. She admitted feeling isolated and overwhelmed, questioning her ability to lead the film. “It was really lonely,” she said, adding the role nearly drove her “insane.”
Still, the film grossed $151.5 million on a $48 million budget. And as of June 2023, a sequel is reportedly in the works, with Washington and Jolie set to return — rekindling the unforgettable chemistry they created over two decades ago.