LES LIAISONS DANGEROUS (2003)

Updated version of de Laclos’ oft-filmed 18th century epistolary classic sets it in the same time period as Roger Vadim ’s 1959 contempo take (w/ J. Moreau & G. Philipe), but sticks far closer to the original counterpoint narrative. Catherine Deneuve (decades too old, but game) & a cadaverous Rupert Everett play the devious plotters who live to deceive lovers, but find their gamesmanship turned back at them when real emotions crack thru the surface. Nastassja Kinski, Leelee Sobieski & the eternal Danielle Darrieux turn this into something of an all-star showcase and the basic intrigue of the story holds your interest. But megger Josee Dayan doesn’t bring much to the party other than a reluctance to ask for fill light, often leaving us with pools of darkness and mysterious silhouettes to decipher.