Cruel Intentions: A Train Wreck on Prime Video

Teen dramas have a way of standing out when they strike the right balance between drama and genuine storytelling. Prime Video’s “Cruel Intentions,” loosely based on the 1999 film and an 18th-century French novel, unfortunately misses the mark completely. The series falls into a trap of tired tropes, weak dialogue, and an overwhelming amount of cringe that can make it tough to watch.

Right from the start, “Cruel Intentions” feels like it’s trying too hard. The idea of wealthy, morally corrupt teens causing chaos could have been intriguing, exploring themes like privilege and toxic relationships. However, the show gets lost in strange creative decisions that make it not just bad, but frustrating to watch.

The writing on “Cruel Intentions” is a major stumbling block. The characters come off as stiff and artificial, delivering lines that sound more like a soap opera than a captivating drama. Attempts at being edgy or smart fall flat, creating moments that should be intense but end up being unintentionally funny.

One recurring issue with the show is its desperate need to be scandalous without earning it. From awkward references to sex to heavy-handed metaphors about power, the series tries too hard to shock viewers without building up to those moments effectively. Predictable plot twists and rushed emotional moments leave viewers feeling disconnected from the characters and their stories.

For a show that relies heavily on drama between characters, “Cruel Intentions” falls short. The characters feel more like stereotypes than real individuals, lacking depth and chemistry on screen. The manipulative schemes they engage in lack sophistication, coming off as clumsy rather than clever. This undermines the tension the show tries to build, making it hard for viewers to stay engaged.

While “Cruel Intentions” boasts polished visuals and a stylish soundtrack, these elements can’t mask the show’s lack of substance. The series struggles with an inflated sense of self-importance, leading to cringeworthy exchanges and forced attempts at being provocative. Heavy themes like betrayal and addiction are surface-level at best, lacking meaningful exploration or insight.

What’s most frustrating about “Cruel Intentions” is its missed potential. With stronger writing, deeper characters, and a more genuine approach, the show could have been something special. Instead, it falls into the trap of prioritizing style over substance, leaving viewers with a hollow, unsatisfying experience. While some may enjoy the show’s over-the-top drama, it requires a high tolerance for mediocrity to fully appreciate. In the end, “Cruel Intentions” is more frustratingly lazy than ambitiously bold.