When first published in 1782, Choderlos de Laclos’s Les Liaisons Dangereuses delighted, shocked and outraged its readers with its naked exposing of morally questionable behaviour from its two protagonists, whose depravity and frivolity fuel a tale of revenge, jealousy and manipulation. This epistolary novel has seen a great number of stage, TV, radio and film adaptations, most notably a film starring Glenn Close and John Malkovich and an Olivier-winning production in the eighties.

This new revival, directed by the Donmar’s Josie Rourke, brings the sparkling adaptation by Christopher Hampton back to life with a wonderful aesthetic sense and great dramatic tension. The opulent but eerily derelict set, mostly lit by chandeliers and candlesticks, is a reminder not only of the destructive psychology of the main characters, but also of the end of the ‘Ancien Régime’ and therefore of the aristocratic era the story is set in. This contrast between richness and destruction is accentuated through costumes, which are luxurious and immaculate no matter how rotten the bearer is inside. Swiftly choreographed scene changes accompanied by music and live singing add to the overall atmosphere: we witness a world and a way of thinking on the brink of destruction.

La Marquise de Merteuil (Janet McTeer) and Le Vicomte de Valmont (Dominic West) – former lovers – plot and dare each other to carry out conquests that can heighten their already notorious reputation. This seemingly simple premise is in fact quite complex, as hidden feelings and resentments surface and friendly dares become dire competition. McTeer is just astonishing as a calculating, cunning aristocrat who is always plotting, manipulating and exerting power over others less astute than herself. From her velvety voice to her masked expressions, Mcteer’s performance is one of a kind – magnetic and dangerous at the same time. On the other hand, West portrays the playful Vicomte de Valmont with sophistication and charming manners, hiding his own cruel intentions. When both protagonists confront each other, sparks fly and a very real tension can be felt. The social masks both wear to hide their feelings drop and we know of their intentions and regrets, which are both dark and many.

The rest of the cast is equally powerful, particularly Morfydd Clark and Elaine Cassidy as Cécile Volanges and Madame de Tourvel. Key elements of the story, their reticence and subsequent fall under the Vicomte’s spell are both real and upsetting as they fall prey to lust and seduction, therefore sealing their fate. When Madame de Tourvel acknowledges her love for the Vicomte, we see her faint, convulse and faint again in an uncomfortable yet deeply powerful scene. Edward Holcroft as the naïve Chévalier Danceny gives also a charming performance, and we feel for him as he falls into the wicked pair’s game. The rest of the cast give both authenticity and dramatic complexity to this deeply psychological drama.

With solid performances, an intimate and meaningful set and a great story, Les Liaisons Dangereuses is not just about two depraved aristocrats. Their actions reflect an infructuous search for real feelings that are impossible to attain, as they never get over their own failed relationship. All their victims, in short, are robbed of that which La Marquis and Le Vicomte so long for in this game that can never end.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses is playing at the Donmar Warehouse until 13 February 2016. For more information and tickets, see the Donmar Warehouse website.