DigiGuide Library

Programme Information

Set in France in 1788 this film is all about sexual politics. The Marquise de Merteuil (Glenn Close) asks for a favour from her lover, Vicomte de Valmont (John Malkovich). This favour is to seduce Cecile de Volanges (Uma Thurman), the fiancee of her ex-husband, before her wedding.

However a side bet evolves between the two conspirators. Valmont wants to seduce a married, god fearing Madame de Tourval (Michelle Pfeiffer) whilst the reward, if he recieves written proof of this liaison, is one last night with the Marquise.

This acclaimed winner of three Academy Awards boasts grand 18th-century sets and costumes.

"nasty, decadent and fun; the suprise is how much anguished emotion seeps through it's cool marble heart" - David Ansen

Keywords:

Drama, Romance, Period Drama, Based-on-Novel, Based-on-Play, Movie, Film, Movies, Films, Oscar Best Picture Nominated, Oscar Best Actress Nominee, Classics

Additional Information:

(1988) (USA / UK) (4 Star)

Cast:

Glenn Close	.... Marquise Isabelle de Merteuil
John Malkovich	.... Vicomte Sébastien de Valmont
Michelle Pfeiffer	.... Madame Marie de Tourvel
Swoosie Kurtz	.... Madame de Volanges
Keanu Reeves	.... Le Chevalier Raphael Danceny
Mildred Natwick	.... Madame de Rosemonde

Supporting Cast:

Uma Thurman	.... Cécile de Volanges
Peter Capaldi	.... Azolan
Joe Sheridan	.... Georges
Valerie Gogan	.... Julie
Laura Benson	.... Emilie
Joanna Pavlis	.... Adèle
Nicholas Hawtrey	.... Major-domo
Paulo Abel Do Nascimento	.... Castrato
François Lalande	.... Curé

Directors:

Stephen Frears

Writers:

Christopher Hampton
Choderlos de Laclos

You may also like:

 Cruel Intentions [Film, 1999]

Related links