Valmont

While this movie was fairly entertaining and a nicely done period piece, I am bewildered by the decision to release this movie less than one year after Dangerous Liaisons, which is based on the same novel and is just a less malicious retelling of the story. This probably explains the anemic box office number of less than two million dollars. At least they waited ten years after this to attempt to retell the story again in Cruel Intentions. Aside from the timing error, there are some excellent performances in the movie. I believe Annette Bening was fabulous in her portrayal as the scheming widower, showing you her cunning side as well as making you believe she has an innocence about her. It was enjoyable to see Meg Tilly in this role though it made me sad to realize she retired from acting and left us with her annoying sister Jennifer. You have to love the costumes, music, and scenery used in the film. A little too much opera for my liking but the rest more than makes up for it.