BY ROMEY NORTON APRIL 4, 2024
In today’s fast-paced, constantly consuming, rat-race of a world, audiences might find Ripley to be a slow-burner. But I implore you to lose yourself in this intriguing story of identity, obsession and imitation. This story is worthy of a series as it gives time for strong character developments - audiences can truly live their experience - and a deeper plot analysis.
Renowned acting legend Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers, Fleabag) leads the eight-episode limited thriller series as the roguish protagonist Tom Ripley. The series is based on Patricia Highsmith's crime novel The Talented Mr. Ripley, and is hugely anticipated by fans of this story. The film also stars Dakota Fanning and Johnny Flynn.
SYNOPSIS
A wealthy man hires grifter Tom Ripley to travel to Italy to urge his play-boy son (Greenleaf) to return home; Tom's acceptance of the job is the first step in a life of deceit, fraud, and murder. Ripley becomes obsessed with Greenleaf; trying on his clothes and adopting his mannerisms. When Greenleaf is brutally murdered Ripley assumes his identity, drawing on his allowance and courting the seductive Meredith Logue. Ripley is a man of mystery who will stop at nothing to keep up appearances.
REVIEW
Ripley is filmed completely in black and white, giving a nostalgic classic Hollywood feel. Black and white cinema is chic, and stylish, especially for a crime-thriller as it makes the scenes far more mysterious. Each (roughly) 40 minute episode has a gentle pace, which allows for audiences to soak up each scene and every cleverly chosen frame. Ripley is beautifully shot, with some quaint locations, and artistic frames.
Scott is stunning. From the hot priest to the hot killer. He’s a terrific actor and he’s been able to flex his muscles in character work in this series. What comes to mind is the character of Charles in Brideshead Revisited, where audiences question their sexual preferences and intentions. Scott is compelling in his slight shifts into obsessive madness, and charms the audience throughout. There are some shots where he is genuinely intimidating, and these moments will keep you on your toes.
Fanning is charming and kind, and easy to watch. Sometimes, she and Scott don’t have much chemistry together, and depth is lacking in some of their scenes. Flynn’s performance is strong, he and Scott compliment each other well and as their relationship and friendship builds so smoothly, it’s shocking when Ripley beats him to death.
One of my favourite things is the music. As the episodes go on the music progressively becomes creepy and scary, alongside Ripley’s character. It’s incredibly effective, and if you enjoy the music, listen to it through the whole credits.
The eight episodes build well to a compelling end, which if you know the book or previous films, is sorrowful but fulfilling.
Ripley is not a series to watch in a rush. The series trusts the viewer to listen, learn and absorb all the information it is feeding you. Take your time, and bask in the beautiful camera work, tentative music, compelling acting and truly lose yourself in this unforgettable crime story.
STAR RATING
