Roger Kumble

Roger Kumble is an American playwright, screenwriter, and director best known for his provocative and darkly witty work in both theatre and film. He gained widespread recognition as the writer and director of Cruel Intentions (1999), a modern, seductive adaptation of the 18th-century French novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses, set among privileged teens in New York City. The film became a cult classic and launched the careers of stars like Sarah Michelle Gellar, Reese Witherspoon, and Ryan Phillippe.

Before his success in Hollywood, Kumble established himself as a playwright in the Los Angeles theatre scene. His early plays, including Pay or Play and d girl, were praised for their sharp satire of the entertainment industry and featured biting dialogue, fast-paced humor, and incisive critiques of ambition and ego in Hollywood. His stage work attracted strong casts and critical acclaim, helping to solidify his reputation as a bold and fearless storyteller.

Kumble transitioned into filmmaking with ease, bringing his theatrical sensibility to the screen. In addition to Cruel Intentions, he has written and directed several feature films, including The Sweetest Thing, Just Friends, College Road Trip, and Netflix’s Falling Inn Love. His work often blends comedy with emotional depth, offering both entertainment and insight.

A versatile and enduring voice in American storytelling, Kumble continues to work across stage and screen, creating smart, character-driven narratives that explore the complexities of relationships, desire, and personal transformation.