Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this film contains quite a lot of sex, most of it not shown explicitly, but all of it highly suggestive. There is liberal use of the usual four-letter words, and many examples of manipulative and cruel behavior. This movie is not recommended for kids under 17.
Families can talk about why the characters behave the way they do –- why is Kathryn so cruel? Why is Sebastian so unconcerned about the feelings of the women he takes advantage of? Is their social status a factor? What about their parents? There are also questions about the film's resolution –- is Sebastian sincere in what he tells Annette? Is what Annette does justified?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Sarah Wenk
Dangerous Liaisons, the novel on which this film is based, has been filmed several times, but it took a special stroke of genius to re-set it in the particularly malicious world of wealthy Upper East Side teenagers.
Sarah Michelle Geller and Ryan Phillipe play Kathryn and Sebastian, step-siblings who amuse themselves by manipulating and betraying other people. Kathryn has been rejected by her latest flame in favor of Cecile (a lovely, goofy performance by Selma Blair), and she concocts an elaborate plan for revenge. Sebastian has his sights set on Annette (Reese Witherspoon), who has declared that she will remain a virgin until marriage. The film documents the outcomes of these schemes, with some unintended, and dire, consequences. It's definitely not for tweens and young teens, but its themes of love, betrayal, manipulation, and cruelty will ring true for older teenagers.
The performances are generally quite good, and the contemporary setting suits the story perfectly. Filmed in settings of dizzying opulence, the atmosphere of indolent wealth is very strong and very real throughout. It's important to bear in mind that this is a movie about very bad people behaving very badly, and impressionable kids might need some guidance to unweave the subtleties of the story. In the end, though, the worst of the evil is punished and good prevails.
This is one of the most fascinating and enduring stories ever written, exposing the dark side of people who appear to be good on the surface, and mature viewers will enjoy both the thrill of the badness and a sense of superiority over these very depraved characters.
Families who enjoy this version should also see the John Malkovich/Glenn Close version, which is set in the period of the novel and is also not appropriate for younger viewers. The novel is also excellent, and somewhat less graphic than the film versions. Viewers might also enjoy Cruel Intentions 2 and The Rules of Attraction.
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentThere is one explicit sex scene, several highly suggestive ones, and a scene in which two girls kiss each other. |
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LanguageVery strong language. |
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Social BehaviorMany examples of manipulative and cruel behavior. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoOne character takes cocaine, several drink alcohol, one to drunkenness. |
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