As a queer individual who grew up in the ’90s and has fond memories of watching the original “Cruel Intentions” multiple times, I must say that the new version has significantly improved upon its predecessor when it comes to representing LGBTQ+ characters. While the original film was groundbreaking for its time, it fell short in many ways.
Initially, like you, I thought nothing could be considered the ultimate film. However, that notion was shattered upon watching Cruel Intentions in 1999. This seductive, wickedly entertaining masterpiece transformed my perspective. Unlike any other teen movie, it was both sexually charged and openly embraced its gay themes, embodying the cruelty portrayed in its title. In my opinion, it was flawless.
Many admirers within the queer community often point to the scene showing Ryan Phillippe’s backside as a pivotal moment, a time when they realized their attraction could no longer be ignored. However, the movie “Cruel Intentions” is far more emblematic of gay culture than just that tantalizing glimpse.
Sebastian seems to thrive on theatrics, though he hasn’t publicly declared it, while Kathyrn is renowned for her biting remarks and striking fashion choices – a fantasy for many in the LGBTQ+ community. To top it off, there’s the scene where she instructs Cecile Caldwell on kissing, a passionate moment that reportedly helped Demi Lovato discover her queer identity (as shared by Entertainment Weekly). In essence, celebrities often share experiences similar to ours.
Upon a second viewing of Cruel Intentions, it’s evident that the movie is equally as prejudiced towards homosexuality as it seems to portray it positively. A significant part of this prejudice can be traced back to Kathryn’s words, which, when not noticeably producing spit, often reveal a ’90s-style intolerance. However, it’s Kathryn, and her delivery is so enticing and haughty that we find ourselves unwillingly drawn in.
Later, we encounter Blaine, played by Joshua Jackson following his stint on Dawson’s Creek. Known as Pacey, he portrayed the original Demon Twink who carries on an affair with Ugly Betty’s Eric Mabius, a man presumed to be straight. His dialogue is likened to a vacuum cleaner. Therefore, a gay character relatable to many? Affirmative. However, it’s challenging not to reflect back and acknowledge that these two characters, despite their iconic status, embody harmful stereotypes – the closeted jock and the flamboyant queen.
Initially, it seems like a throwback to the ’90s, yet disturbing is the fact that their affair is manipulated as an embarrassment by Sebastian for his attempts to seduce Reese Witherspoon’s character, Annette, and later Kathryn, turning it into a tool in his pursuit.
In the fresh reboot of Cruel Intentions on Prime Video, we find a storyline reminiscent of the original. The characters this time around are Caroline Merteuil (played by Sarah Catherine Hook) and Lucien Belmont (portrayed by Zac Burgess). Much like Kathryn and Sebastian, they are wealthy step-siblings who share an intense attraction towards each other, although their names have been slightly altered.
In a surprising turn of events, once more, the character Annie Grover, portrayed by Savannah Lee Smith, finds herself at the center of a wager. However, this time there are several alterations (mostly advantageous ones).
As a movie reviewer, I found Sara Silva’s portrayal of CeCe in “Much Ado About Me” to be a refreshing departure from Selma Blair’s interpretation. Silva breathes life into the role, offering a nuanced performance that transcends the stereotypical “dumb” portrayals often associated with Kathryn’s best friend.
Initially, we meet Blaise Powell (John Harlan Kim), a character reminiscent of Jackson’s Blaine. Unlike Lucien, however, he has a close relationship with Khobe Clarke’s Scott Russell. This character resembles the previous Cecile, but his understanding of common sense seems to be lacking frequently. When I say “close relationship,” what I really mean is they share an intimate bond, as they are romantically involved.
In the updated version of Cruel Intentions, Scott, similar to Greg McConnell in the original movie who was absent, is also not present. However, due to the additional time and advancements in screen representation for LGBTQ+ characters over the years, this new adaptation allows the characters, especially the pair, a degree of self-determination that wasn’t possible before. Although Scott doesn’t have much agency himself, this is a conscious decision made by the creators.
Scott is exceptionally uneducated, to the point where he took a spoon to the Super Bowl instead of a fork or knife. Scott is so unintelligent that when he goes for a blood test, he asks for time to cram for it. Scott is so unintelligent that he’ll gaze at a carton of orange juice for 20 minutes because the label says ‘Concentrate’.
This situation is beneficial for Blaise as it allows him to control Scott and make him do whatever he desires, whether that’s getting into trouble behind locked doors or gaining a position of influence at their university, thus increasing his own power. In both aspects, this updated version of Cruel Intentions surpasses the original.
Witnessing Blaise express, “It’s fascinating to see a strong man humbled,” is different, but what’s surprising is catching glimpses of him engaging romantically instead of merely fading to black. Originally, the movie only hinted at Blaine’s romantic encounters, with brief mentions, but never actually showing them (except for a quick moment under the covers before Sebastian discovered and used it against him for blackmail).
Most of the romantic scenes in the series are primarily heterosexual due to the lead characters identifying as such. Yet, this does not limit the significant impact both Blaise and Scott have on the broader storyline. Throughout the entire first season, we witness their relationship unfold across all eight episodes.
Is Scott hiding his true sexuality, or is he genuinely unaware? Is Blaise truly smitten with that boy with curly hair, or is he simply manipulating him? The way these young men explore their emotions amidst the power struggles on campus is far more complex than I ever imagined for a reboot like this.
Is there room for even further development? Indeed, but let’s not forget that the show has its limitations. Characters like Blaise and Scott could have been given more focus, which might have resulted in a more captivating and unique series. However, since this is a remake of Cruel Intentions rather than an entirely new LGBTQ+ series, it’s worth noting that delving into issues such as classism and the influence of fraternity culture on queer men is noteworthy and should be appreciated.
Despite the use of stereotypical “villainous gay” motifs that may present Blaise in a negative light, it’s important to note that he is merely struggling to survive within a ruthless society where those with fewer resources face more oppression than marginalized communities. The intrigue lies in the fact that this theme is conveyed through an Asian character, which, considering the dearth of gay Asian men on screen, adds a fresh and long-awaited perspective to broader representations.
In the last installment, Blaise’s desires don’t quite materialize as planned, a common occurrence for all characters by the end. Regardless of their wealth, power, or sexual orientation, no one experiences happiness in this grim world they inhabit. It’s not a matter of the LGBTQ+ community being singled out for punishment, but rather an unfortunate reality shared by all.
The revamped Cruel Intentions isn’t flawless; it occasionally misses the mark. However, its bold portrayal of gay relationships deserves recognition. Whether they’re pursuing power or passion, these characters play a significant role in the plot this time, contrasting sharply with their limited presence in the initial, influential yet imperfect film.
Cruel Intentions is available to stream now on Prime Video.
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2024-11-21 13:34