20 years later, you can see the charm that made Witherspoon a star, appreciate Blair's comedic splendor, and recognize that Phillippe was handsome and is also in this movie.

Cruel Intentions is a stretch for all concerned, including the targeted audience, one that pays off handsomely--and works for older moviegoers as well.

At this infantile level of appraisal, I suspect that Ms. Gellar and Mr. Phillippe may have a harder time next summer than last.

I have nostalgia problems. cruel Intentions leaned harder into manipulation, sex, and cruelty. A very delicious guilty pleasure 25 years later, Roger Kumble’s sexy thriller can still put it wherever it wants.