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“Cruel Intentions” is a 2024 TV series adaptation inspired by the 1999 film Cruel Intentions, known for its scandalous blend of romance, manipulation, and high society drama. This new series, directed by seasoned filmmaker Stephen Herek, explores the dark allure of privilege and manipulation within an elite college setting. Produced by Amazon Studios and Amazon Freevee, the show revives the classic tale for a new generation, introducing viewers to a new set of morally ambiguous characters ensnared in power plays.

Synopsis

The series follows step-siblings Caroline Merteuil and Lucien, whose lives are marked by privilege and power at their elite university. After a hazing scandal threatens their status, the cunning pair devises a strategy to manipulate those around them, specifically targeting Beatrice, the daughter of the Vice President of the United States. As Caroline and Lucien scheme to seduce and exploit her, they descend further into a tangled web of lies and seduction. This calculated pursuit to retain power challenges their relationships, ethics, and ultimately their grip on control.

Cast

The cast of Cruel Intentions (2024) includes a talented ensemble:

• Zac Burgess as Lucien – the charismatic yet morally flexible stepbrother.
• Sarah Catherine Hook as Caroline Merteuil – a shrewd and manipulative student, driven by power.
• John Harlan Kim as Blaise – an intriguing character entangled in Caroline and Lucien’s schemes.
• Sean Patrick Thomas as Professor Chadwick – a figure from the original film who now serves in a mentor role.
• Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice – the vulnerable daughter of the Vice President, caught in Caroline and Lucien’s twisted games.

Additional cast members include Khobe Clarke, Sara Silva, Savannah Lee Smith, Darrin Baker as Vice President Grover, and Jade Fernandez. Their roles add complexity and intrigue to this high-stakes drama.

Review

Cruel Intentions (2024) brings a fresh approach to the themes of manipulation, seduction, and societal pressures initially popularized in the ’90s. The narrative intertwines youthful ambition with the dark side of privilege, showcasing characters whose calculated decisions reveal both brilliance and vulnerability. Sarah Catherine Hook and Zac Burgess deliver intense, standout performances as Caroline and Lucien, capturing the essence of toxic charm and fractured morality. The setting in an elite college adds a layer of modern-day relevance, appealing to audiences intrigued by the interplay of power and identity.

This new take on Cruel Intentions balances nostalgia with timely social commentary, offering a binge-worthy experience for fans of dark, psychological drama. With its seductive plot twists, the show has already garnered attention for its unique revival of a beloved classic.

Cruel Intentions (2024) is set to premiere on November 21, 2024, marking an enticing addition to the streaming lineup for Amazon Freevee.

Source: IMDB