Harsh Vardhan
A TV adaptation of the 1999 cult classic ‘Cruel Intentions’ from Columbia Pictures is set to commence filming in Toronto, Canada. After several years of unsuccessful attempts to bring a series based on the film ‘Cruel Intentions’ to fruition, the series has now secured a new home. Prime Video has reportedly greenlit an eight-episode series based on the 1999 cult classic.
In this fresh take on the storyline, a pair of relentless step-siblings will stop at nothing to maintain their dominance, specifically within the Greek life hierarchy at a prestigious Washington, D.C. college. Faced with a severe hazing incident that jeopardizes the entire Panhellenic system, they are willing to take any measures required to safeguard their influence and reputations — including the seduction of the Vice President of the United States’ daughter.
The narrative of ‘Cruel Intentions’ draws inspiration from the 18th-century novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, ‘Dangerous Liaisons.’ The contemporary movie adaptation of 1999 features step-siblings Kathryn Merteuil and Sebastian Valmont, portrayed by Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe. Engaging in a bet, they center it around Sebastian, a notorious womanizer, testing his prowess to seduce Annette Hargrove, the daughter of their New York City prep school, portrayed by Reese Witherspoon.
Phoebe Fisher and Sara Goodman are set to bring their creative prowess to the adaptation, serving as writers for the project. With an impressive background, Fisher is known for her work on ‘Euphoria’ and Goodman is renowned for her work in ‘Gossip Girl’ Joining them is the skilled director Adam Arkin, who is poised to guide the project with his seasoned expertise. Arkin has notably directed ‘My Louisiana Sky’ and has starred in ‘Sons of Anarchy.’ Neal H. Moritz is slated to take on the role of executive producer for the series, leveraging his experience as a producer for the original film.
The cast of the upcoming ‘Cruel Intentions’ series includes Sarah Catherine Hook, known for her work in ‘First Kill,’ Zac Burgess, Khobe Clarke, Brooke Lena Johnson, Sara Silva, Sean Patrick Thomas, recognized for his role in ‘Save the Last Dance,’ John Harlan Kim, Myra Molloy, and Jon Tenney, who has previously starred in ‘The Closer’ and ‘The Division.’ Together, this talented ensemble brings a wealth of experience to the anticipated production. Jenny Lewis, Sara Kay, and Lauren Grey are behind this cast, serving the project as casting directors.
While the release date for the ‘Cruel Intentions’ series remains undisclosed, the project is scheduled to commence production in Toronto later this month. Toronto has recently become a burgeoning hub for productions, giving rise to acclaimed TV series such as ‘The Boys,’ ‘Gen V,’ and the movie ‘Priscilla’ as of this year alone.
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