ROGER VADIM
Bil’s rating (out of 5): BBBB.5.
Alternate title: Dangerous Love Affairs
Italy/France, 1959. Les Films Marceau-Cocinor. Dialogue and adaptation by Roger Vailland, Roger Vadim, Claude Brule, Screenplay by Roger Vailland, based on the novel by Choderlos de Laclos. Cinematography by Marcel Grignon. Music by James Campbell, Duke Jordan, Thelonious Monk. Production Design by Robert Guisgand. Costume Design by Gladys De Segonzac. Film Editing by Victoria Mercanton.
Those with any inclination towards seeing Cruel Intentions should know that Dangerous Liaisons was already adapted to a modern setting by Roger Vadim (no need to point out that this is a highly superior version to that lame teen sexfest). It’s about a French aristocrat (Gérard Philipe) who along with his haughty, evil conspirator (Jeanne Moreau) enjoys making bargains regarding sexual prowess. His latest project is to tear down the morality of a virtuous young woman (Annette Stroyberg), though soon after he conquers her he is in danger of actually losing his heart. Very entertaining, even for those who already know the story inside out, and the modern parallels are brilliantly executed.
