Wild Things Returns: 90s Cult Thriller Joins Netflix Line-Up

Few genres evoke the late 90s quite like the steamy thrillers that once dominated the silver screen. Among the most memorable is a certain 1998 release, notorious for its tangled plot and a cast that seemed to be everywhere at the time. Now, nearly three decades on, this provocative classic is set to make its streaming debut on Netflix as part of the platform’s 2026 offering.

Back in March 1998, audiences were introduced to a film that would quickly earn a reputation for its audacious storytelling and a cast list that reads like a who’s who of the era. Matt Dillon, Kevin Bacon, Neve Campbell, and Denise Richards all took centre stage in a story that was anything but straightforward. Directed by John McNaughton—who previously unsettled viewers with his 80s horror work—the film was produced on a $20 million budget and ultimately pulled in over $67 million worldwide, a rather tidy sum for a film that didn’t exactly play it safe.

Neo-Noir with a Twist

While the film’s more risqué moments may have drawn in a certain crowd, a closer look reveals a surprisingly sharp neo-noir narrative. The plot, far from being a simple tale of seduction, is packed with double-crosses and unexpected turns. The official synopsis sets the scene:

"When teen debutante Kelly (Richards) fails to attract the attention of her hunky guidance counsellor, Sam (Dillon), she cries rape, igniting a scandal that results in his arrest. Sam appeals to Ken (Bill Murray), a hack personal-injury lawyer"

What follows is a labyrinthine story where motives are murky and alliances shift with dizzying speed. The film’s reputation as a ‘trashy’ cult favourite belies a script that’s cleverer than it first appears, rewarding viewers who pay attention to its many layers.

Critical Surprises and Enduring Appeal

Despite its sensational marketing and a plot that could have easily veered into pure pulp, the film managed to win over a number of critics. Roger Ebert, never one to mince words, was among those who found more to admire than expected. The film’s blend of dark humour, suspense, and a willingness to push boundaries has helped it maintain a loyal following over the years.

For many, the film is a time capsule of late-90s style and attitude, but it’s the intricate plotting and memorable performances that have kept it in the public consciousness. As it prepares to reach a new generation of viewers on Netflix, its status as a cult classic seems only more secure.