 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Cruel Intentions
- Review Date: August 11, 2005
- R
- Genre: Drama
- 1999
Common Sense Media says
Dangerous Liaisons among rich NYC teens.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
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.
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.
What families can talk about
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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AGE
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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AGE
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.
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AGE
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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AGE
The big mistake this mediocre film makes is not making its 2 main characters likable. AT ALL. I hated both of them the entire movie, even after (SPOILER ALERT) Sebastian supposedly changes his ways, which is stupid. The whole thing's predictable, but it's ridiculously entertaining, and that's why got it its 3rd star.
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AGE
for teens
Love it if u let ur teens watch prime time soaps let them watch this
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| Studio: | Columbia Tristar |
| Director: | Roger Kumble |
| Cast: | Reese Witherspoon, Ryan Phillippe, Sarah Michelle Gellar |
| Genre: | Drama |
| Run time: | 97 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | March 5, 1999 |
| DVD release date: | August 3, 1999 |
| MPAA rating: | R |
| MPAA explanation: | language and explicit sexual situations |
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