Corrupt Desires

Warning: This article contains spoilers for the season 1 finale of Cruel Intentions, “Theta.”

The first season of the Cruel Intentions TV show was surprisingly less harsh than the original 1999 movie, with one character managing to survive the finale.

In the season finale, “Theta” (now available on Prime Video), Lucien Belmont (Zac Burgess) drives off in his vintage Jaguar XK140 after a scandalous encounter with his step-mother Claudia (Claire Forlani) and a revenge plot against his step-sister Caroline Merteuil (Sarah Catherine Hook), which involves sharing a compromising sex tape. The drama unfolds with a touch of step-incest reminiscent of the movie’s scandalous plot.

Unlike the fate of Ryan Phillippe’s character from the movie, Lucien’s survival leaves room for redemption or retribution in future episodes, as hinted by showrunner Phoebe Fisher and Sara Goodman.

Showrunner Sara Goodman emphasizes the complexity of Lucien’s character and the unresolved love triangle in the series, hinting at more twists and turns in the upcoming seasons.

The first season also delves into the dynamics between characters like Annie Grover (Savannah Lee Smith) and Caroline Merteuil, showcasing a mix of betrayal, deception, and budding relationships similar to the movie’s themes.

Fisher highlights the evolving roles of characters like Annie and the interconnected stakes among the ensemble cast, setting the stage for more intense storytelling in the future.

As viewers anticipate Lucien’s next moves and the unfolding drama, Goodman teases the introduction of new characters and complex relationships in the upcoming seasons.

Showrunners reveal that the TV show exists in the same universe as the original movie, offering a fresh perspective on the twisted world of the Merteuil family and their manipulative schemes.

Connections to the 1999 movie are subtly woven into the series, creating a sense of continuity and homage to the original film’s legacy.

The legacy of characters like Kathryn Merteuil is hinted at, bridging the gap between the past and present narratives of the Cruel Intentions storyline.

Dive deeper into the intertwining threads between the TV show and the iconic movie as we explore the parallels and references throughout the first season.

The song

The iconic song “Bitter Sweet Symphony” from the original movie plays a significant role in the TV show, with both a new cover and the original version featured in key moments of the series.

Showcasing a jazzy version of the song pays homage to the movie’s musical influence, adding a nostalgic touch to the modern adaptation, as explained by Fisher.

The careful selection of music, including covers like “Every Me Every You,” reflects the show’s dedication to honoring the original film and integrating its essence seamlessly into the narrative, as emphasized by Goodman.

Lucien’s vintage Jaguar XK140, reminiscent of Sebastian’s car from the movie, becomes a symbolic element in the series, reflecting the character’s journey and conflicts throughout the season.

Goodman explains the process of recreating the iconic car for the show, highlighting the attention to detail and authenticity in capturing the essence of the original movie.

The presence of a silver cross necklace, a nod to Kathryn’s signature accessory, adds a touch of intrigue and symbolism to Caroline’s character, echoing themes of power and deception.

While the necklace in the TV show is a recreation, its significance and connection to the original movie’s narrative remain intact, as revealed by Goodman.

The infamous bet between step-siblings takes center stage in the series, setting off a chain of events that test loyalties, desires, and moral boundaries among the characters, mirroring the intense dynamics of the original movie.

Recreating iconic scenes like the pool encounter and volunteer activities adds depth to the characters’ relationships and experiences, echoing the movie’s themes of manipulation and vulnerability.

A modern twist on the classic makeout session scene showcases the evolving dynamics between characters, offering a fresh take on the original movie’s memorable moments, as discussed by Goodman and Fisher.

The exploration of secret romances and hidden desires adds layers to the characters’ motivations and actions, deepening the intrigue and complexity of their relationships, reminiscent of the movie’s intricate plotlines.

Thomas’s return to the Cruel Intentions universe in a new role adds a sense of continuity and familiarity for fans, while his character’s journey unfolds with unexpected twists and connections to the original movie.

The final shot of the season leaves viewers with a sense of triumph and anticipation, hinting at unresolved conflicts and new beginnings for the characters, echoing the essence of the original movie’s conclusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the TV show a direct sequel or remake of the original movie?

A: The TV show exists in the same universe as the movie, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic storylines and characters.

Q: Are there significant connections to the 1999 movie in the TV show?

A: Yes, the series incorporates subtle references and parallels to the original movie, creating a sense of continuity and homage to the classic film.

Q: What can viewers expect in future seasons of the show?

A: The show’s creators hint at more complex relationships, surprising plot twists, and new characters in upcoming seasons, promising an engaging and unpredictable narrative.

Q: How does the TV show pay tribute to the original movie’s legacy?

A: From


Credit: ew.com