Reviewed by Jodie Crawford

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical is an energetic and fun adaptation of the 1999 cult film, blending the drama of the original with an upbeat 90s pop soundtrack. Set in an elite prep school, the story revolves around Sebastian Valmont, a charming and manipulative teen whose latest game involves seducing and ruining the lives of his peers. Alongside him is Kathryn Merteuil, his scheming step-sister, who sets the stakes higher by making a bet on Sebastian’s ability to corrupt Annette, a new and innocent student. As Sebastian begins his pursuit of Annette, the characters are pulled deeper into a web of lies, deceit, and temptation—all set to a backdrop of hit songs from the 90s.

One of the undeniable highlights of the show is the vocal performances. Luke Conner Hall as Blaine Tuttle delivers a standout performance with his powerhouse voice, perfectly capturing the essence of the character with both charm and intensity. Likewise, Lucy Carter, playing both Cecile and Marci, is another scene-stealer, with her incredible vocal range and comedic timing adding energy and warmth to the production.

The musical is bursting with nostalgic 90s hits that really bring the era to life. From No Scrubs by TLC to I Want It That Way by the Backstreet Boys, the audience is treated to an unforgettable soundtrack. These songs are seamlessly integrated into the storyline, with some clever and humorous nods to their lyrics. It’s clear that the production is aware of its playful tone, and for many, these moments of self-aware humour hit the mark, providing a light-hearted and entertaining atmosphere throughout the show.

The high-energy choreography and over-the-top performances create a vibrant, comedic feel in the first act, which some audience members absolutely adored. The audience was buzzing with excitement, and many found themselves caught up in the fun of it all. The show’s ability to bring laughter and joy, especially for fans of the original film and 90s music, cannot be overstated.

That being said, Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical isn’t for everyone. The humour, while fun for many, includes outdated, offensive jokes, particularly homophobic and racist remarks, that may leave some feeling uncomfortable. These moments feel out of place in today’s context, and while they may have been acceptable in the original film, they detract from the otherwise light-hearted tone of the musical.

Another issue with the production lies in its storytelling. The plot, while following the original film’s general premise, lacks depth and development, leaving certain emotional moments feeling underdeveloped. The musical’s tone also fluctuates, with Act 1 leaning into a slapstick, tongue-in-cheek approach and Act 2 attempting to make the characters’ emotional struggles more serious. This shift can feel jarring, and it’s unclear whether the show is a comedy, a parody, or a more faithful interpretation of the film. For some audience members, the inconsistency in tone might make it difficult to fully engage with the characters’ emotional arcs.

Additionally, some of the song choices and dance routines felt derivative, almost mimicking the original versions of the hits rather than offering a fresh take. Sometimes this felt intentional and other times I just wasn’t sure. I found it confusing. While these numbers were undeniably fun, they didn’t always add much depth to the show’s overall narrative or emotional impact.

Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical is a wild and vibrant ride through the best hits of the 90s, filled with memorable performances and an infectious energy that many in the audience loved. For fans of the original film, 90s music, or anyone who enjoys a fun, upbeat show, there’s a lot to enjoy. However, its humour and narrative tone might not resonate with everyone, and those seeking a more serious or cohesive experience might find it lacking. If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic, playful evening with catchy tunes and tongue-in-cheek humour, this musical delivers plenty of fun. Just be prepared for a show that embraces its campy, bold style—whether or not it fully lands with every viewer.

Cruel Intentions is on at Manchester’s Palace Theatre until Saturday 29th March tickets available here.