‘Cruel Intentions’: Reese Witherspoon improvised this scene and even made her co-star throw up

The film “Cruel Intentions” (1999) is already a cult comedy that marked an entire generation, known for its intrigue, passion and surprising twists. However, there is one scene that stands out for its authenticity and spontaneity that turns out not to have been in the script.

This improvised scene is part of his iconic moments.

The Unscripted Scene in ‘Cruel Intentions’

In the film, Reese Witherspoon plays Annette Hargrove, an idealistic young woman who becomes the target of manipulation by the main characters: Sebastian Valmont (Ryan Phillippe) and Kathryn Merteuil (Sarah Michelle Gellar). The sexual tension between Annette and Sebastian is palpable throughout the film, but there is one particular moment that rings especially true.

During a scene where Annette and Sebastian are in a car, Ryan Phillippe decided to improvise. Instead of following the script, he approached Reese Witherspoon after hurting her deeply. Witherspoon’s reaction was genuine: She slapped him in the face. They were both very much in character and that slap was not planned, but it was kept in the film because it captured the authenticity of the moment.

Ryan Phillipe’s rage was so real that he ended up throwing up after the shot. While Reese Witherspoon commented that the scene left her “shocked”. However, he also acknowledged that his co-star’s improvisation gave the scene an authenticity it wouldn’t have had if the script had been followed to the letter, so director Roger Kumble.

Not only did this scene add an extra layer of tension and passion to the story, but it has also become one of the most iconic scenes in the film.

Ryan Phillippe and Reese Witherspoon’s chemistry from “Cruel Intentions” transcended the screen

The chemistry between Phillippe and Witherspoon was not only manifested on screen, but also off it. At the time, the couple was dating in real life and would later become husband and parents together.

Interestingly, Ryan Phillippe also worked hard to convince Reese Witherspoon to join the cast of the film. During a dinner, both Phillippe and director Roger Kumble pitched his idea Hard Intentions to Witherspoon, who was initially unsure. However, she eventually accepted the role of Annette and the film became a milestone in their careers and their personal relationship.