Cruel Intentions

Cruel Intentions

Year: 1999

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Roger Kumble

DramaThrillerRomance

In the cutthroat world of privileged youth, a trio of manipulative acquaintances - including Kathryn (Sarah Michelle Gellar), Sebastian (Ryan Phillippe), and Annette (Reese Witherspoon) - engage in a dangerous game of emotional manipulation, exploiting the vulnerabilities of those around them to satisfy their own twisted desires.

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Timeline & Setting – Cruel Intentions (1999)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Cruel Intentions (1999). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary setting that reflects the social dynamics and youthful exploration of love and manipulation. The atmosphere resembles a late 1990s to early 2000s modern society, where high school hierarchies and interpersonal relationships remain deeply significant.

Location

New York City

New York City serves as the bustling backdrop for 'Cruel Intentions,' known for its vibrant life and high societal stakes. It features a blend of luxury and chaos, embodying the pursuit of ambition and romantic entanglements amid a competitive atmosphere. This metropolis is a character in itself, influencing the lives and decisions of its inhabitants.

🏙️ City 🌆 Urban 🎓 School

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:45

Main Characters – Cruel Intentions (1999)
Meet the key characters of Cruel Intentions (1999), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Sebastian Valmont (Ryan Phillippe)

Sebastian Valmont is a wealthy and charming teenager skilled in manipulation, initially focused on seducing women for sport. However, as he pursues Annette, he undergoes significant character development, revealing his capacity for genuine love. His internal struggle between his predatory instincts and newfound emotions adds depth to his character.

😈 Manipulative 💘 Romantic 🎩 Wealthy

Annette Hargrove (Reese Witherspoon)

Annette Hargrove is the principled daughter of a headmaster who seeks true love. Her character is marked by authenticity and vulnerability, contrasting with the manipulative nature of those around her. As she navigates her feelings for Sebastian, she represents the struggle to maintain one's integrity amidst deceit.

💖 Innocent 🎓 Principled 🌹 Authentic

Kathryn Merteuil (Sarah Michelle Gellar)

Kathryn Merteuil is a cunning and ambitious stepsister who operates with ulterior motives and is skilled at manipulation. Her desire to control outcomes leads her to sabotage others, showcasing her ruthless nature. Kathryn’s duality as a charming socialite and a heartless strategist highlights her complexity as an antagonist.

👑 Scheming 🎭 Deceptive ⚔️ Vengeful

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:45

Major Themes – Cruel Intentions (1999)
Explore the central themes of Cruel Intentions (1999), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🖤 Betrayal

Betrayal is central to the plot as characters manipulate each other for their personal gain. Sebastian and Kathryn's schemes lead to devastating consequences, showcasing the emotional turbulence that comes from deceit. The theme unfolds as characters grapple with their desires and the repercussions of their actions.

❤️ Love vs. Manipulation

The film explores the tension between genuine affection and manipulative desires. Sebastian's initial aim to seduce Annette transforms as he develops true feelings for her. This conflict highlights the complexity of human emotions and the struggle between authenticity and manipulation.

💔 Consequences

Each character faces the fallout of their choices, particularly Sebastian, whose journey culminates in tragedy. The consequences of actions driven by ulterior motives ripple through their lives, leading to sorrow and loss. This theme serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of one's decisions on themselves and others.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:45

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