Amazon Prime Video unveils first trailer for “Cruel Intentions” series

The “Cruel Intentions” series updates the story of the original film, which starred Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair. The new narrative centers around Caroline Merteuil (played by Sarah Catherine Hook) and Lucien Belmont (Zac Burgess), step-siblings who exert their influence over Greek life at Manchester College, a prestigious institution in Washington, D.C. When a hazing incident spirals out of control, the duo resorts to deception and seduction to escape the fallout.

The trailer features a haunting cover of The Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony,” paying homage to the original film’s iconic soundtrack while establishing a contemporary vibe.

In addition to Hook and Burgess, the series boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Savannah Lee Smith, Sara Silva, Khobe Clarke, John Harlan Kim, and Brooke Lena Johnson. Notably, Sean Patrick Thomas, who played Ronald Clifford in the original film, makes a return as Professor Chadwick in this updated iteration.

This latest adaptation is not the first attempt to bring “Cruel Intentions” to the small screen. Following the original film’s success, Fox ordered a spinoff series titled “Manchester Prep,” but it was ultimately scrapped before airing. Two episodes were later re-edited and released as the straight-to-video “Cruel Intentions 2.” In 2015, NBC attempted to develop a sequel series set 15 years after the film, with Sarah Michelle Gellar set to reprise her role as Kathryn Merteuil, but the project was ultimately shelved.

The current series is helmed by co-showrunners and writers Sara Goodman and Phoebe Fisher, with executive production from Neal H. Moritz and Pavun Shetty of Original Film, along with Roger Kumble, who wrote and directed the original movie.

The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television, Amazon MGM Studios, and Original Film, all of which contributed to the production of the 1999 movie.

With its modern twist on a beloved classic, the “Cruel Intentions” series is poised to capture the attention of both new viewers and longtime fans. The blend of familiar themes with fresh narratives, coupled with a talented cast and creative team, sets the stage for an engaging and provocative exploration of privilege and manipulation. Don’t miss the premiere on November 21, only on Prime Video.