The question of whether cruel people can be considered cool people takes center stage with the highly anticipated reboot of “Cruel Intentions” premiering on Thursday via Prime Video. This new adaptation, based on the classic French novel “Les Liaisons Dangereuse,” unfolds in the backdrop of a Washington, DC, college where fraternity and sorority status holds significant sway. The story follows the twisted and ruthless step-siblings, Caroline Merteuil (Sarah Catherine Cook) and Lucien Belmont (Zac Burgess), with their inappropriate relationship at its core.

Career Break and Challenges

For both Cook and Burgess, this project represents a major career milestone. Burgess, 22, shared his initial concerns about his young age and high-pitched voice when filming at just 20. He also mentioned the difficulty of adapting to an American accent coming from Australia. Cook, on the other hand, started during her callback session with the show runners and pilot director, Adam Arkin. They faced the challenge of not trying to copy the previous Sarah Michelle Gellar version but instead building the character from scratch. After the first take, they knew they had found the right essence for Caroline - a quiet observer who assesses situations and thinks several steps ahead.

Character Development of Caroline

Caroline is not the typical mean girl. She is depicted as a quiet observer, always assessing those around her. She gives off an air of being bored by others as if they can't keep up with her. It's as if she is a jungle cat, a cougar stealthily stalking her prey. This portrayal adds a unique dimension to her character, making her more than just a one-dimensional villain.

She doesn't rely on snarky or campy behavior to make an impact. Instead, her actions and demeanor speak volumes. She is a complex character who hides her true intentions beneath a calm exterior.

Character Complexity of Lucien

Lucien, played by Burgess, is a very complex character. He has some haunting traumas that have shaped who he is today. Despite his flaws, he is sexy, cool, and cunning. There is a little playfulness about him that adds an interesting layer to his personality.

He is able to navigate the social dynamics of the college with ease, using his charm and deception to get what he wants. His character is a study in contrasts, showing both the dark and light sides of human nature.

All 8 episodes of “Cruel Intentions” will premiere on Prime Video on November 21.