Cruel Intentions, directed by Roger Kumble, is one of those 90s drama movies that everyone was talking about when flip phones were cutting-edge technology. It’s a steamy dive into the world of scandalous plotting and high-stakes teen suspense. This movie review tackles the drama head-on, with a tad bit of romance—because what’s a high school drama without a pinch of love and deceit?
Picture this: two viciously charming and conniving step-siblings, set against the glittering backdrop of an elite Manhattan prep school. They make a devilish wager that has all the makings of a Shakespearean tragedy. The goal? To deflower the new headmaster's daughter before school is back in session. Trust me, the plot’s hook is juicy enough to throw you back to your own school days—except way more stylish and far more nefarious than any cafeteria intrigue you might have cooked up.
When it comes to acting, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe bring a whole new meaning to sibling rivalry. They ooze charisma—and venom. Gellar sheds her Buffy persona with ease, showcasing her versatility in a role dripping with malice. Phillippe plays the suave, boyish role perfectly, and you can't help but get sucked into his character's charm and treachery. Let's not forget Reese Witherspoon, who shines as the virtuous headmaster's daughter, bringing both vulnerability and strength to the screen. The direction by Roger Kumble is slick, maintaining a delicate balance between tension and allure. The screenplay—adapted from Choderlos de Laclos' novel—delivers sharp, witty dialogues and keeps the plot racing along at a gripping pace.
As you watch Cruel Intentions, you can't help but draw parallels with other best drama movies of its time. It feels like a sexier, more ruthless counterpart to '10 Things I Hate About You', another 90s classic. But rather than just retreading familiar territory, it takes its place next to more calculated dramas like 'Dangerous Liaisons'. It might not touch the genius of 'Clueless', but it certainly holds its own with its intricate plotting and ethical conundrums.
If you're in the mood for a cinematic masterpiece with layers worth peeling and a story that keeps unfolding with every rewatch, this is a must-watch film. So, grab some popcorn and buckle up for one of the best drama movies of its era. And hey, if your high school years were a tad drab, live vicariously through these twisted tales of teenage ambition and—dare I say it—cruel intentions. Was it perfect? No. But in the world of high school drama and awry morality, it’s pretty spot on!