Synopsis

A modern retelling of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ 1782 novel Les Liaisons dangereuses, set in New York City among rich high schoolers. Headmaster’s daughter Annette unwillingly becomes a pawn in a deliciously diabolical wager of sexual conquest when she writes an article in Seventeen Magazine about how she intends to stay pure until she marries her boyfriend. However, Sebastian gets more than he bargained for as he attempts to woo Annette into his bed to try and win the ultimate prize – his stepsister Kathryn.

All images by Pamela Raith Photography.

Review

Cruel Intentions is such a cult classic with a soundtrack perhaps only rivalled by Luhrman’s Romeo & Juliet. Could a stage version live up to the original? Of course it can morons!

Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, the musical is true to the film and translates really well to the stage, although for those who aren’t familiar with the film, it might be a little tricky to follow in places. It’s slick and fast paced, moving smoothly from dialogue into song, maintaining the integrity of the film but adapting certain parts of the story to enhance the theatricality.

It was great to see more time given for Blaine (Josh Barnett) and Greg (Barney Wilkinson), as they provide an extra layer of warmth and humour to the story. This may have been to the detriment of Annette’s character arc as her change of heart was almost instantaneous and her virginal pledge lacked credibility. Abbie Budden is a talented performer, but did not quite capture the innocence and depth of the character.

Juke box musicals are not my favourite, but Cruel Intentions the 90s Musical combines songs from the film soundtrack with some of the best ’90s belters to ensure nostalgia and delight (with the exception of Wannabe – added just a few days ago – which does not work at all and feels out of place and awkward…) in each scene. No Scrubs (performed by Jess Buckby and Nickcolia King-N’da) is an absolute hoot whilst Bitch / Losing My Religion is stunning.

Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky is outstanding as Kathryn, honouring Sarah Michelle Gellar’s portrayal but providing her own brilliant interpretation of the character. She is a cold-hearted sexy bitch and I adored every minute of her performance. Rose Galbraith is an excellent Cecile, providing additional laughs and immaturity to the character – she absolutely nails it, especially the seamless transition into The Sign! The ensemble in this show is also fantastic, raising the energy and showing off Gary Lloyd’s choreography especially in the finale which pays homage to the film with the iconic Bittersweet Symphony.

Cruel Intentions exceeded my expectations and is a really great adaptation of this beloved film. Highly recommend it to 90s kids and anyone who loves sex, drugs and rock n roll (well, classic ’90s tunes anyway).

Thanks to Kevin Wilson PR for my ticket. Opinions my own.