The new series is a perfect storm of compelling performances, provocative storytelling, and cultural resonance.
With a legacy spanning decades and beyond, the iconic story of Cruel Intentions continues to evolve. Over two decades since the film’s 1999 release, the story remains universal, daring to explore the darkest corners of human desire. Its edgy themes of power, deceit, and the consequences of unchecked privilege have stood the test of time.
Now, Cruel Intentions has been adapted into a serialized format, proving that its allure endures.
This time, the narrative follows Caroline Merteuil (Sarah Catherine Hook) and Lucien Belmont (Zac Burgess), step-siblings willing to do whatever it takes to maintain their status at the top of their college’s Greek life. Their latest scheme involves seducing Annie Grover (Savannah Lee Smith), the daughter of the Vice President, to protect their power after a hazing scandal threatens to topple their world in Washington D.C.
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The strong cast features Sara Silva as Cece Carroway, Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice Worth, John Harlan Kim as Blaise Powell, Khobe Clarke as Scott Russell, and Sean Patrick Thomas making his return, this time as a Professor. Claire Forlani enters the narrative as Claudia, Caroline’s mother, while Jon Tenney plays U.S. Congressman Russell, Scott’s father.
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The series benefits from the talents of Sara Goodman and Phoebe Fisher as writers, executive producers and co-showrunners, along with the guiding hands of executive producers Neal H. Moritz and Roger Kumble, both of whom were integral to the 1999 film.
You don’t need to have seen the original to enjoy this new rendition, as it stands on its own. At the same time, the series offers some Easter eggs that fans of the original are sure to spot (and love).
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Every element, from Lucien’s car’s exterior and interior, crafted to evoke the iconic Jaguar XK140 Roadster from the original film, to the carefully selected wallpapers, door handles, and countless intricate details that captured the regal essence of the story, was meticulously curated to ensure nothing was overlooked.
The updated setting introduces new stakes, showcasing a more modern take on the social hierarchy.
All eight episodes of Cruel Intentions are available to stream on Prime Video, November 21.
