A slick, sexy, and scandalous night of high drama
Les Liaisons Dangereuses has undergone many reincarnations in the centuries since its release; sometimes retaining its French title, often Anglicised to become Dangerous Liaisons, and once given the 90s teen romance treatment as Cruel Intentions. Whether set in 18th-century Paris or the elite educational institutions of modern New York, the idea is the same: shining a (moody and atmospheric) light on the usually hidden sexual politics and gender dynamics which underlie society, writes Melina Block.
While I’m not entirely convinced that this latest rendition at The National Theatre understands the tone it’s going for, it certainly understands the aesthetic. The costumes are decidedly Bridgertonian: much like the hit Netflix drama, the most glamorous, and sexy, elements of a nonspecific era of the past are retained – corsets, sparking jewels, swishing gowns – forgoing historical accuracy for something far more seductive and fun. This is especially necessary in this production, with the sweeping dance sequences interspersed between scenes, skirts and shirts billowing as the cast glide and spin around the stage.
Previously mentioned tonal issues aside – most glaringly how the Vicomte de Valmont’s (Aidan Turner) sleazy and at times genuinely criminal sexual exploits quickly give way to earnest protestations of love and suffering, clearly somewhat ironically, but with moments (especially towards the end) where it feels like we are meant to sympathise more than feels possible – the acting is strong. Each of the main characters is convincing as strikingly different personalities, with Lesley Manville standing out as the jaded and scathing Marquise de Merteuil.
Living up to its notorious reputation, Les Liaisons Dangereuses is a slick, sexy, and scandalous night of high drama.
National Theatre until June 6th.
Booking and full details: https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/les-liaisons-dangereuses/
