This movie is a great commentary on so many things that go on in the lives of high schoolers. Parents preach one thing while doing another. Kids are a lot smarter than we give them credit for. This movie is eye opening as to how kids respond to the hypocrisy that is so rife in the adult world.
Cruel Intentions
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Dangerous Liaisons among rich NYC teens.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 16–18
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Cruel Intentions was written by Sarah Wenk
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
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- 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?
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More on Cruel Intentions
What’s the Story?
Based on the novel Dangerous Liaisons, CRUEL INTENTIONS centers on step-siblings Kathryn (Sarah Michelle Geller) and Sebastian (Ryan Phillippe), rich New York City teens who amuse themselves by manipulating and betraying other people. Kathryn has been rejected by her latest flame in favor of Cecile (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.
Is It Any Good?
The novel on which Cruel Intentions 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. 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.
The story exposes the dark side of people who appear 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. It's definitely not for tweens and young teens, but its themes of love, betrayal, manipulation, and cruelty will ring true for older teenagers. If you do decide to let your younger teen watch it, keep in mind they 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.
Movie Details
Studio: Columbia Pictures Entertainment, Director: Roger Kumble
Run time: 97 minutes
Theatrical release: 03/05/1999, DVD release: 08/03/1999
MPAA Rating: R for language and explicit sexual situations
Run time: 97 minutes
Theatrical release: 03/05/1999, DVD release: 08/03/1999
MPAA Rating: R for language and explicit sexual situations
Our Members Say
See all 3 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title iffy for age 16 and give it
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
a must see!!!
a great movie overall, it may not be suitable for younger children but it is a must see for the older ones an amazing movie [one of my faves]
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
A MUST-SEE TEEN MOVIE!!!!!!!
I think this is one of the best teen movies there is to offer. Yes, there is a pretty big amount of sexual content but I think that during the adolescent years, kids should be seeing these kind of films. Anyways, I hope you enjoy this film as much as me. Cause believe me; I REALLY like this movie!
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