Dangerous Liaisons

Amazon.com

A sumptuously mounted and photographed celebration of artful wickedness, betrayal, and sexual intrigue among depraved 18th-century French aristocrats, Dangerous Liaisons (based on Christopher Hampton's Les Liaisons Dangereuses) is seductively decadent fun. The villainous heroes are the Marquise De Merteuil (Glenn Close) and the Vicomte De Valmont (John Malkovich), who have cultivated their mutual cynicism into a highly developed and exquisitely mannered form of (in-)human expression. Former lovers, they now fancy themselves rather like demigods whose mutual desires have evolved beyond the crudeness of sex or emotion. They ritualistically act out their twisted affections by engaging in elaborate conspiracies to destroy the lives of their less calculating acquaintances, daring each other to ever-more-dastardly acts of manipulation and betrayal. Why? Just because they can; it's their perverted way of getting get their kicks in a dead-end, pre-Revolutionary culture. Among their voluptuous and virtuous prey are fair-haired angels played by Michelle Pfeiffer and Uma Thurman, who have never looked more ripe for ravishing. When the Vicomte finds himself beset by bewilderingly genuine emotions for one of his victims, the Marquise considers it the ultimate betrayal and plots her heartless revenge. Dangerous Liaisons is a high-mannered revel for the actors, who also include Swoosie Kurtz, Mildred Natwick, and Keanu Reeves. --Jim Emerson

Customer Reviews:

Dangerous Liasons.......2007-07-06

"Liaisons" had been filmed before (Roger Vadim did a modern-day version in 1960) and would be again (1989's "Valmont" and 1999's "Cruel Intentions"), but this is the best of the lot, boasting a lush production, and a deliciously wicked performance from Close. Malkovich, though not handsome enough for the Valmont role, injects a sly, predatory sexuality that compensates nicely. Pfeiffer has never been better (or prettier), and watch for the vision of budding womanhood that is Uma Thurman. A clever, eye-filling treat.

Smart. Very smart........2007-06-08

All-star cast, great piece of writing... one of my all-time favorites.

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2007-01-04

This was a great read. Easy to understand and much more indepth and indetail than the movie, which is also excellent. I'm a huge fan of period books and movies and this is one of the best. John Malkovich surely would make any girl's heart flutter. He is charming as Valmont and plays the character exactly as I expected after reading the book. He's what makes the movie.

I much preferred Cruel Intentions.......2006-11-15

Of course, I saw Cruel Intentions first, and it appealed to me more because of Ryan & Reese. (No longer Hollywood's Golden Couple, if they can't last, what hope is there for us mere mortals?) You always prefer the one you see first, and for me, it is definitely Cruel Intentions. Plus, I have a tendancy to detest 'costume' films, and can never sit through them (Emma, Sense & Sensibility etc).

Although there is a lot similar between Dangerous Liasions & Cruel Intentions (many of the lines stay practically the same), and Swoosie Kurtz, who plays Madame de Volange, went on to play Dr. Greenbaum in Cruel Intentions (in both films, Valmont seduces her daughter), there's just something magical missing. I couldn't tell who was who in Dangerous Liasions, and Keanu Reeves, is infamously stiff in this. (Loosen up, man!) I just couldn't sit through it, and I always know when I start films or even books, I know I cannot sit through it.

Unfortunately Dangerous Liasions is not for me, although I'm the only reviewer who seems to think this. Everyone else is raving about it. But you have to be really into the film, and be able to keep your eyes above chest height on the actresses.

The Eleventh-Hour Valmont.......2006-07-27

The period costumes for this movie were sumptuous--I wish I could wear some of the pretty dresses sported by Michelle Pfieffer and Glenn Close!

Anyhoo, the acting is top-notch, from the soon-to-be-corrupted Uma Thurman's Cecile, the moral Michelle Pfieffer's Madame de Tourvel, the sans conscience Glenn Close's Marquise de Merteuil, to the role that would typecast John Malkovich for more than a few movies, his notorious Vicomte de Valmont. (You can see that Malkovich's Osmond in "A Portrait of a Lady" channels the pre-repentant Valmont.) The only slight off-casting was Keanu Reeve's role of music teacher/lover of Cecile and the Marquise. Keanu is great in The Matrix movies and in "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure," but I don't think this role was his best work.

I have read almost half of the novel by Choderlos de Laclos and will one day complete it (I have a very bad habit of reading several books at the same time and of neglecting a book I had started to read for many months b/f I pick it up again). There's one scene in the book that was also depicted in the movie that I particularly like. In order to build "brownie points" with Madame de Tourvel, Valmont, knowing full well he was being followed by a servant of Madame de Tourvel, paid the debts of a peasant family who were about to be evicted. In the book (this book is written in epistolary style, that is, the whole book consists of letters characters have written to each other), Valmont admitted to the Marquise that he felt genuine pleasure and was even moved to tears when he helped save this family from ruin. He recognized that "do-gooders" receive a sense of pleasure from their charity, and that this pleasure has its own value---not of the same vein of the pleasure of self-gratification that Valmont usually sought. This scene's brief glimpse of Valmont's "higher self" would later take root in his sincere love for Madame de Tourvel. That a blackguard who's capable of abysmal cruelty can come to love the angelic Madame de Tourvel is sight for sore eyes.
Unfortunately, Valmont wasn't exactly clear about his own feelings until the Marquise spelled them out for him. He had indeed loved the good Madame de Tourvel, and he was attracted to her goodness, a quality not often intact among his other lovers and acquaintances.

Michelle Pfieffer really engaged the audience's sympathies when she broke down after Valmont told her he must end the relationship and that this break was "beyond his control." All of her worst fears about Valmont and the warnings she had received against him seemed to be confirmed. However, Madame de Tourvel was informed before she died that Valmont had indeed loved her and that the time he spent with her was the happiest of his whole life. This aspect of the movie/book is about as far as you can get from cynicism and transcends the other "nasty, decadent" relationships in "Dangerous Liasisons." Valmont's eleventh-hour repentance was beautiful, skillfully enacted by Malkovich b/f his death.

The Marquise was devastated when she learned of Valmont's death. She was booed at a concert after letters of her treachery were circulated (one of Valmont's dying wishes).

On the special features, the actors gave some feedback about their characters. Glenn Close attributed the Marquise's cruelty in part due to the lack of options women had back then. The Marquise was preoccupied with challenging and violating conventions while keeping up the appearance of them. John Malkovich was less sympathetic towards his character and just called Valmont's life a waste. However, his character's change of heart was better late than never.

Average customer rating:

A Fantastic Sequel to LoA.........!!
T. E. Lawrence in Paris . . .
A Dangerous Man: Lawrence After Arabia
Historically Accurate
How accurate is this movie?

A Dangerous Man
Starring: Ralph Fiennes , Alexander Siddig , Denis Quilley , Nicholas Jones , and Roger Hammond
Director: Christopher Menaul
Manufacturer: Bfs Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B0001BKBM0
Release Date: 2004-03-23

Customer Reviews:

A Fantastic Sequel to LoA.........!!.......2007-07-22

Although quite a rare film to get a hold of now & out of print, this is one of Ralph Fiennes early successes on the big screen. Although playing our GREAT hero Lawrence completely differently to Peter O'Toole, I think Ralph does a wonderful job of portraying Lawrence's personality (assuming all that we read is true of this iconic legend?)

The story here is about what happened after the defeat of the Turks in Transjordan and what the Ottoman Empire was then. How the great expanse of this area was split up, why it was split up & who were involved in the [fatal?] decision making behind creating the countries that exist in the Middle East today. It will probably help you understand the present conflicts out there and may get you to question whether what happened was in the true interests of those living there? Namely Iraq, Iran, Syria, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon & Saudi Arabia.

As Ralph discovers half way through the film it's all about power, money & of course Oil.

Not as long as "Lawrence of Arabia" it is worth its weight in gold as it compliments the original film.

T. E. Lawrence in Paris . . ........2007-02-21

Picking up where "Lawrence of Arabia" left off, this film focuses on the political maneuverings among the French, English, and Americans following World War I, as they gather in Paris to divide up the world according to their colonial interests. T. E. Lawrence and the Arab prince Faisal, who fought together against the Turks during the war, attempt to preserve the new-won independence for the Arabs, but they are out-maneuvered at nearly every turn by the British, who with the help of the French, have plans to fold much of Arabia into the Empire.

Since we know from the start that Lawrence fails in his efforts, the film becomes a character study of a man without the political leverage to gain his objectives, while deeply conflicted by a personal history that makes his efforts seem desperate and painful. Meanwhile, those pitted against him are quick to show their scorn, using his illegitimate birth and his humble origins in an attempt to humiliate and intimidate him. In response, Lawrence employs his cutting wit, his intelligence, and a kind of reckless bravado to hold his own against them until circumstances and exhaustion finally wear him down.

Compared to Peter O'Toole's performance in "Lawrence of Arabia," Ralph Fiennes gives us a less glamorized portrayal of the man who seems driven by both over-confidence and self-doubt. The giggly grin during moments of pressure reveals a barely concealed uncertainty, even when he is playing hardball with his adversaries. It's clear that he is most at ease with his only compatriot, Faisal, whom he loves, while at the same time using him like a pawn in a game he seems to be playing for his own ends. It's a wonderfully complex performance set against a key moment in European and Middle East history with ramifications that fill the news today, almost 90 years later.

A Dangerous Man: Lawrence After Arabia.......2006-11-25

The sequel to David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia" with Ralph Fiennes reprising Peter O'Toole's role as the protagonist. A good portrait of the aftermath of WWI and the diplomatic wrangling of the Paris Peace Conference of 1919. France and Great Britain decide how to divvy up the Near East after the demise of the Ottoman Empire. Notable figures include Gertrude Bell, Winston Chrurchill, and Woodrow Wilson.

Historically Accurate.......2005-07-17

Being a student of TE Lawrence, I particularly enjoyed this movie about the Paris Peace Conference post WW I British-French handling of Arabia. Ralph Fiennes was wonderful in the role of Lawrence. His physical stance, body language, facial expressions and voice were as history describes TEL. This movie was subtle, sets and costumes historically accurate and famous figures very well cast. It would be of interest to history lovers, specifically of this era, even who knew nothing about the specific subject. However, knowing the facts probably does add to the appreciation of the movie. I highly recommend this to anyone who is interested in TE Lawrence and/or the history of Arabia and the Middle East.

How accurate is this movie?.......2004-05-07

Spoiler alert.

Amazon.com

This visually sumptuous adaptation of the classic French novel of seduction, betrayal, and revenge stars the great Catherine Deneuve (Repulsion, Belle de Jour) as the scheming Madame de Meurteuil, who--to get back at a man who spurned her for a younger woman--persuades her equally amoral friend Valmont (Rupert Everett, My Best Friend's Wedding) to seduce the young woman in question. Thus begins one of the most intricate and hypnotic plots every orchestrated; it's no wonder Les Liaisons Dangereuses has been adapted into film so many times. This 2003 French miniseries starts with cars, costumes, and music from the early 20th century, then rapidly becomes more modern. More stylish than passionate; still, the villainous orchestrations will suck you in. Also featuring Nastassja Kinski (Tess, Cat People), Leelee Sobieski (The Glass House), and Danielle Darrieux (8 Women). Jean-Paul Gaultier costumed Deneuve. --Bret Fetzer

Description

Customer Reviews:

You Can Have it Both Ways: Deneuve and Close.......2006-08-02

The good thing about this 2003 version is that I kept thinking it was "very current," but it is set in the 1960s. I mean to say that the evil theme and accompanying drama are ageless. The version by Glen Close and John Malkovitch is the standard to me. However, the Catherine Deneuve and Rupert Everett version shines uniquely in its own way. Thus, both versions are exquisite interpretations of a notorious story. This review is about the Short Version in English, not the long version in French.

I have read some reviews here and there on this version that say that Deneuve is not believable as a sex object. My response is that she could be if she was ever a sex object to you. For instance, when she acted in Belle de Jour, or when she was the face for Chanel Couture in the 80s. Thus, the vestige of that profound beauty is preserved in her slightly bloated body and weary face. To me, real beauty is that kind that ages, yet maintains some of the original vitality and aura of its former self. Catherine does this. Moreover, this production emphasizes how lust is absolutely enhanced by wealth, luxury, and power. It is then credible why teenage boys may want to have an affair with a woman old enough to be their mother. That phenomenon can be compared to drinking a 50-year-old cabernet or merlot. What wine connoisseur could resist???? Either sex, when precocious, appreciates instruction from a master. Valmont desires Madame de Merteuil because she is no longer accessible, because she is a master seductress, and not because she is sexy (although the average heterosexual male will find her sexy). She was a very rich, very powerful woman in Haute Parisienne society, which is comparable to heroin to some. Predators thrive on conquests.

Deneuve is splendid in her Gaultier costumes and, to me, she ages much better than did Grace Kelly/ Princess Grace.

There was a very aggravating flaw in the technical aspect of this version (the 200 minute English), as Catherine's dubbed dialogue always seemed to be one or two syllables off. I chose to ignore this.

Also, for the very bad human behavior, or Valmonts and de Merteuil's dangerous liaison, to be based on Madame de Merteuil's bitter jealousy makes perfect sense to me. First, Valmont and Merteuil are already "ruined" spiritually having been using people as pawns for a long time, and themselves being used, so there were no moral scruples that could have been expected of them anyway. In reality, evil for the sake of evil is perfect balance to good for the sake of good. You cannot have good without almost an equal amount of evil. C'est La Vie.

Note: An important distinction between the Glen Close and Deneuve versions is that Rupert's Valmont acts out his revenge against Madame de Merteuil in greater detail than did Malkovitch's Valmont. Rupert systematically moves among the other characters in an attempt to redeem himself particularly for the damage done to innocent Marie Tourvel (Nastassja Kinski), whom he fell in love with unexpectedly (by fate) and foolishly destroyed by caprice.

Valmont/Rupert feels that death is a form of release from the torment of remorse and says: " . . . to bring about your ruin (i.e. Madame de Merteuil) has brought me no consolation. My proposal to be your friend or your foe was also meaningless, each individual is first a victim of himself."

If you can believe in Divine Retribution, then we can see intervention from God, who caused Valmont to fall in love with one of his victims during, perhaps, the most dangerous game he has ever played. So, ideally, he can never have the love that he would desire, because love is not a virtue suited for the wicked. I perceive it will be the most impossibly desired "concept" in hell by the damned, where longing will exceed the agony of fire. Christians know that Jesus values love, joy, peace, virtue, etc. greater than diamonds and gold. These are his treasure, and are jealously guarded. Christ allows lust (fake love) to proliferate among the wicked, but NEVER love.

I don't think I will ever be able or even want to seriously criticize any version of LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES, as this story is a masterpiece that defines how we can sometimes get into a relationship easily that turns out to be impossible to exit without unseen personal damage or destruction.

Outstanding.......2006-07-02

This DVD is absolutely captivating. It's an adaptation Of
Choderlos de Laclos' book written in the seventeen hundreds.
Directed by Josee Dayan for TV in 2003 I believe. He did an amazing job of bringing the story to modern times. If you love
intrigue, deception, jealousy, sex and pure evil, you will adore this DVD with its magnificant color and scenery. It's just a wonderful film and you will love it. If I could,
I would give it ten stars.

Josée Dayan's Exquisite Updated Adaptation.......2005-11-26

This review refers to "Les Liasions Dangereuses" - 270 minute extended edition(Wellspring DVD)...

I love this story and try to see every version of it that comes out. This one made in 2003, by the wonderful Josée Dayan, is purely exquisite. This tale of deadly seduction is updated and adapted to the 1960's. A good choice by the director, as we get to see it played out differently and although much closer to the present, still gives that feel that 40 years ago, the moralities of the key players might still have been considered a bit of a shocker.

In this update, the story revolves around a Center For the Arts, that is run by none other then the woman we all love to hate, Madame de Mereuil. She and long time, on and off again lover, Valmont scheme and connive to destroy relationships and lives. Revenge is Madame's wish, and Valmont is only too happy to comply with her wishes, knowing that she will be his reward in the end. He is the best when a seduction is at hand. But things get complicated for Valmont, when his heart takes an unexpected turn towards Madame Tourvel. Innocent bystanders, the young Cécile de Volanges and virtuoso musician Raphael Danceny, also get pulled into the web of deceit. Valmont wants out though, and must find the weakness that will put an end to Madame Merteuil. It's a marvelous tale of wickedness.

Now, I know some may agree with me that no one can compare to John Malkovich's take on Valmont, but I must say, that Rupert Everett is quite convincing and actually, physically, takes on the look of the devil himself. And who else but Catherine Deneuve, could follow an act like Glenn Close. Deneuve's take is a little different, she gives Madame a multi-faceted personality that at times is even likeable. So we, the audience, get drawn into her schemes as well. And she is so beautiful, even now, one can hardly take their eyes off of her.
Nastassi Kinski as Madame Tourvel and Leelee Sobieski is Cecile. Both turning in excellent performances. Danielle Darrieux, is Valmont's wise Aunt, who seems to see all.

It's an excellent production. Beautiful and vivid colors that take you back to the 60's. Fabulous costumes, and scenery. Presented in widescreen(anamorphic) and 5.1 Sound in French with English subtitles. It's a three part production. Each part on a separate disc, each running about an hour and a half. Be sure to catch the lengthy conversation with Dayan in the special features.

Play the game once more in this absolutely mesmerizing update.
Merci Beaucoup....Laurie

not too bad.......2005-09-06

a little dissapointing, even though deneuve simmers beautifully
and everett holds his own.....not as god as previous version with malkovitch

Disappointed and bored.......2005-06-28

Finally watched the Josée Dayan's Les Liaisons Danngereuses, only PART ONE, rather disappointed and bored!

Catherine Deneuve is simply unfit and inconvincing to be the great manupulator Madame de Meurteuil, so much so far way behind Glen Close. The plot of this much adapted novel is already familiar to a lot audience, we need a much beyond fame and beauty screen goddess who can pull it "agefully". Say Cher?

I could save some energy for PART TWO though for the continuous charm of Rupert Everett, and ah, those lovely backdrops of French country too.

Catherine Deneuve Collection (Place Vendome / Pola X / Dangerous Liaisons / Kings and Queen)

Average customer rating:

More of the same
Not a great "collection"

Catherine Deneuve Collection (Place Vendome / Pola X / Dangerous Liaisons / Kings and Queen)
Starring: Catherine Deneuve
Manufacturer: Wellspring Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Scene of the Crime

ASIN: B000ROAMC0
Release Date: 2007-09-18

Description

Catherine Deneuve - Special Gift Set, Titles Included: Kings and Queen, Place Vendome, Dangerous Liasons, Pola X

Customer Reviews:

More of the same.......2007-07-31

Outside of Place Vendome and Liasons, I don't know why someone would purchase this set. It has none of her most impressive work other than Place Vendome. It would have been much nicer to find the 40th Anniversary edition of Belle de Jour, Tristana, Les Voleurs, or Belle Maman. This is more of the same, and those of us that own countless Deneuve films want new remastered releases and films that have never before been on DVD. The Screen Icons collection at Amazon UK, which is released by Optimum is a much better collection. I myself own it, and it has one film that most Deneuve fans have probably never seen, Manon 70.

Not a great "collection".......2007-07-29

For the Deneuve fan, this really isn't the best collection of her work. "Place Vendome" was a terrific film, there's no doubt about it. "Dangerous Liaisons" was ok, but not the creme de la creme of definitive Deneuve. "Pola X" was a wretched film that Deneuve is only in for about 5-10 minutes in the beginning. And while I have not seen "Kings and Queen", I'm told that her screen time is minimal. How is a Catherine Deneuve Collection not going to include an Oscar nominated performance in "Indochine?" If you want the best of Deneuve, you're better off buying individual copies of "Indochine," "Place Vendome," "Repulsion," "Belle de Jour," "East/West," and even "Belle Maman" if you can get your hands on it.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons) (270-Minute Extended Version in French)

Average customer rating:

You Can Have it Both Ways: Deneuve and Close
Outstanding
Josée Dayan's Exquisite Updated Adaptation
not too bad
Disappointed and bored

Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons) (270-Minute Extended Version in French)
Starring: Catherine Deneuve , Rupert Everett , Nastassja Kinski , Danielle Darrieux , and Leelee Sobieski
Director: Josée Dayan
Manufacturer: Fox Lorber
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00015YV4K
Release Date: 2004-03-16

Amazon.com

Description

Josée Dayan's latest adaptation of Choderlos de Laclos' classic tale of seduction, betrayal and revenge features an all-star cast including Catherine Deneuve, Rupert Everett, Nastassja Kinski and Leelee Sobieski, and is set in the world of 1960s Parisian high society. The beautiful Madame de Merteuil (Deneuve) seeks vengeance when her ex-lover tells her that he is now engaged to her young goddaughter, Cécile (Sobieski). She turns to her partner-in-crime, Valmont (Everett), famous for his reputation as a Don Juan to seduce Cécile. Valmont gets sidetracked when he goes to visit his aunt and falls for Madame Tourvel (Kinski), a virtuous, married woman who knows of his womanizing ways, but that only makes the challenge more exciting to Valmont. Together, Madame de Merteuil and Valmont make a dangerous team and they will stop at nothing when it comes to matters of the heart.

Customer Reviews:

You Can Have it Both Ways: Deneuve and Close.......2006-08-02

Outstanding.......2006-07-02

Josée Dayan's Exquisite Updated Adaptation.......2005-11-26

not too bad.......2005-09-06

a little dissapointing, even though deneuve simmers beautifully
and everett holds his own.....not as god as previous version with malkovitch

Disappointed and bored.......2005-06-28

Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons) (200-Minute Version in French)

Average customer rating:

You Can Have it Both Ways: Deneuve and Close
Outstanding
Josée Dayan's Exquisite Updated Adaptation
not too bad
Disappointed and bored

Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons) (200-Minute Version in French)
Starring: Catherine Deneuve , Rupert Everett , Nastassja Kinski , Danielle Darrieux , and Leelee Sobieski
Director: Josée Dayan
Manufacturer: Fox Lorber
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B00015YV5Y
Release Date: 2004-03-16

Amazon.com

Description

The beautiful Madame de Merteuil (Deneuve) seeks vengeance when her ex-lover tells her that he is now engaged to her young goddaughter, Cécile (Sobieski). She turns to her partner-in-crime, Valmont (Everett), famous for his reputation as a Don Juan to seduce Cécile. Valmont gets sidetracked when he goes to visit his aunt and falls for Madame Tourvel (Kinski), a virtuous, married woman who knows of his womanizing ways, but that only makes the challenge more exciting to Valmont. Together, Madame de Merteuil and Valmont make a dangerous team and they will stop at nothing when it comes to matters of the heart.

Customer Reviews:

You Can Have it Both Ways: Deneuve and Close.......2006-08-02

Outstanding.......2006-07-02

Josée Dayan's Exquisite Updated Adaptation.......2005-11-26

not too bad.......2005-09-06

a little dissapointing, even though deneuve simmers beautifully
and everett holds his own.....not as god as previous version with malkovitch

Disappointed and bored.......2005-06-28

Charlie Rose with Frank Rich, Richard Brookiser, Jacob Weisburg & David Frum; Frederica von Stade; Hugh Downs (November 30, 1994)

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Charlie Rose with Frank Rich, Richard Brookiser, Jacob Weisburg & David Frum; Frederica von Stade; Hugh Downs (November 30, 1994)

Manufacturer: Charlie Rose
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Description

First, a discussion about Newt Gingrich and his political future with New York Times columnist Frank Rich, Richard Brookiser of The National Review, Jacob Weisburg from New York Magazine, and author David Frum. Then, mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade talks about her career and her role in the new opera, The Dangerous Liaisons. Finally, 20/20 host Hugh Downs discusses on his career in broadcasting, his interest in science, and his new book, Fifty to Forever.

Dangerous Liaisons/ Les Liaisons dangereuses

Average customer rating:

Updated Version....Magnifique!

Dangerous Liaisons/ Les Liaisons dangereuses

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ASIN: B0007G6PIS

Product Description

Updated adaptation of Choderlos de Laclos' classic 18th Century tale of seduction, betrayal and revenge set in the modern 1960s world of Parisian high society. The beautiful Madame de Merteuil (Catherine Deneuve) seeks vengeance against her ex-lover Gercourt (Andrzej Zulawski) when he becomes engaged to her young goddaughter, Cécile (Leelee Sobieski). Merteuil turns to her ex-lover/partner-in-crime, Valmont (Rupert Everett), famous for his reputation as a Don Juan, to seduce Cécile and emotionally destroy her. While on his mission, Valmont gets sidetracked when he goes to visit his aunt and falls for Madame Tourvel (Nastassja Kinski), a virtuous, married woman who knows of his womanizing ways, but that only makes the challenge more exciting to Valmont. Together, Madame de Merteuil and Valmont make a dangerous team and they will stop at nothing when it comes to matters of the heart.

Customer Reviews:

Updated Version....Magnifique!.......2006-09-28

This review refers to "Les Liasions Dangereuses" -...

I love this story and try to see every version of it that comes out. This one made in 2003, by the wonderful Josee Dayan, is purely exquisite. This tale of deadly seduction is updated and adapted to the 1960's. A good choice by the director, as we get to see it played out differently and although much closer to the present, still gives that feel that 40 years ago, the moralities of the key players might still have been considered a bit of a shocker.

In this update, the story revolves around a Center For the Arts, that is run by none other then the woman we all love to hate, Madame de Mereuil. She and long time, on and off again lover, Valmont scheme and connive to destroy relationships and lives. Revenge is Madame's wish, and Valmont is only too happy to comply with her wishes, knowing that she will be his reward in the end. He is the best when a seduction is at hand. But things get complicated for Valmont, when his heart takes an unexpected turn towards Madame Tourvel. Innocent bystanders, the young Cecile de Volanges and virtuoso musician Raphael Danceny, also get pulled into the web of deceit. Valmont wants out though, and must find the weakness that will put an end to Madame Merteuil. It's a marvelous tale of wickedness.

Now, I know some may agree with me that no one can compare to John Malkovich's take on Valmont, but I must say, that Rupert Everett is quite convincing and actually, physically, takes on the look of the devil himself. And who else but Catherine Deneuve, could follow an act like Glenn Close. Deneuve's take is a little different, she gives Madame a multi-faceted personality that at times is even likeable. So we, the audience, get drawn into her schemes as well. And she is so beautiful, even now, one can hardly take their eyes off of her.

Nastassi Kinski as Madame Tourvel and Leelee Sobieski is Cecile. Both turning in excellent performances. Danielle Darrieux, is Valmont's wise Aunt, who seems to see all.

It's an excellent production. Beautiful colors that take you back to the 60's. Fabulous costumes, and scenery. There are a few DVD editions of this production available. I have the 270 minute extended edition(enter B00015YV4K in DVD search and it should take you there, and you will see other editions available as well), which is a marvelous DVD, and has a nice lengthy feature with a conversation with the director.That one is in French with English subtitles. Features are not listed as of yet on this edition, but you can contact one of the outside sellers through e-mail and ask about the features(subtitles, sound, formats, etc),check for price and availability, and decide which edition you would like.

Play the game once more in this absolutely mesmerizing update.
Merci Beaucoup....Laurie

Average customer rating:

Dangerous Liaisons [Region 2]
Starring: Glenn Close , John Malkovich , Michelle Pfeiffer , Swoosie Kurtz , and Keanu Reeves
Director: Stephen Frears
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

( D ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
ASIN: B00004VYLO

Phantom of the Opera (2004) & Dangerous Liaisons

Average customer rating:

Phantom of the Opera (2004) & Dangerous Liaisons
Starring: Gerard Butler , and Glenn Close
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

( P ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
ASIN: B0008G2ILK
Release Date: 2005-05-03

DVD:

DVD

DVD