Cruel Intentions (1999)
Slaking a thirst for dangerous games, Kathryn challenges her stepbrother, Sebastian, to deflower their headmaster's daughter before the summer ends. If he succeeds, the prize is the chance to bed Kathryn. But if he loses, Kathryn will claim his most prized possession.
Details
Budget
$10,500,000
Rating
7/10 (3322 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Columbia Pictures, Newmarket Capital Group, Original Film, Neal H. Moritz Productions
About Cruel Intentions
The 1999 film "Cruel Intentions" explores themes of manipulation and seduction within the context of privileged youth. Centered on a wager between stepsiblings, the narrative follows their dangerous game to corrupt the headmaster's daughter before the summer concludes. The film touches on elements of dark romance and drama, drawing on keywords such as "bet," "sexual obsession," and "manipulation."
The story is set in an upper-class private school environment, dealing with concepts of innocence and cynicism. Characters engage in destructive behaviors, including drug abuse and incitement. The film's atmosphere is defined by its exploration of antagonistic relationships and the psychological aspects of control and desire.
"Cruel Intentions" is a drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships, especially those marked by power dynamics and a lack of moral boundaries. The film has a runtime of 98 minutes and has a vote average of 7 out of 10 based on 3322 votes.
Why you might be searching for Cruel Intentions
People search for this movie due to its focus on manipulative relationships, especially the dynamic between the step-siblings and their bets involving others. The film's themes of seduction and private school settings are also notable elements that users remember and look for.
What reviewers are saying
One viewer found the movie to be well-executed, noting its provocative content and impactful storyline, ultimately describing it as sad.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "Cruel Intentions" on Netflix. It is also available to rent for $3.99 on Amazon Video and Fandango at Home, or for $5.99 on YouTube. Some sources also indicate it is available on Amazon Prime Video with ads.
No, "Cruel Intentions" is not based on a true story. It is a modern retelling of the 1782 novel "Les Liaisons dangereuses" by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos.
At the end of "Cruel Intentions," Sebastian gives Annette his journal, which details Kathryn's manipulative schemes, their bet, and his true feelings for Annette. When Kathryn tries to intervene in a confrontation between Sebastian and Annette, Sebastian pushes Annette to safety but is hit by a taxi and dies. At Sebastian's funeral, Annette distributes copies of his journal, exposing Kathryn's manipulations and destroying her reputation.
"Cruel Intentions" has received mixed reviews, with a 54% Tomatometer score and a 56 out of 100 on Metacritic. Some critics found it unconvincing or disjointed, while others praised it as stylish, watchable, and a cult classic with a great ending.