Prime Video’s attempt to reboot the Cruel Intentions franchise has had a rocky start, with the new series receiving a poor reception from critics. Based on the 1782 novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses, the series, which updates the 1999 film starring Sarah Michelle Gellar, has garnered a meager 30% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, far below the original movie’s 54%.
The journey to bring Cruel Intentions to the small screen has been a long one. Plans for a TV adaptation were floated shortly after the film’s release, but they first morphed into a 2000 direct-to-video sequel. NBC then passed on developing the project in 2015, and it wasn’t until late 2021 that Prime Video finally took on the reboot.
Despite all eight episodes of season one now available for streaming, initial reviews have been underwhelming. The reboot’s critical score places it just above Cruel Intentions 2 (18%) and far below the original movie’s reception. The 1999 film, while also divisive, was a box-office hit, grossing $76.3 million globally, and became a beloved cult classic, earning accolades at the MTV Movie Awards and Teen Choice Awards.
What the Rotten Tomatoes Score Means for the Reboot’s Future
It’s worth noting that the critical score for Cruel Intentions could shift as more reviews come in. Audience feedback will likely play a key role in shaping the series’ long-term reception, especially considering the divide between critics and viewers that characterized the response to the original movie.
The 1999 film, despite its mixed critical reception, found success among audiences and became a defining piece of late-’90s teen culture. It’s possible that the reboot could similarly find its audience among younger viewers, who may relate more to the modernized themes of the series.
Will Audience Response Reflect the Original’s Popularity?
As the show continues to gather feedback, it remains unclear whether it will replicate the cultural impact of the original Cruel Intentions. The series seems geared toward a younger demographic that may not align with the critical voice of today, much like the 1999 movie, which resonated with teen audiences despite critical skepticism.
Until more viewers weigh in, it’s premature to dismiss the reboot entirely. Similar to its predecessor, the series may attract a dedicated fanbase that helps it endure despite early critical setbacks.
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