The Stellar Adaptation of a Literary Classic

Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 novel The Talented Mr. Ripley has a rich history of successful film adaptations. From 1960’s Plein soleil starring Alain Delon to the 1999 hit The Talented Mr. Ripley with Matt Damon, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow, this riveting story has captivated audiences for decades. However, the newest interpretation, Netflix’s Ripley, truly outshines its predecessors as a one-of-a-kind television triumph.

Episode by Episode Excellence

Spanning eight exhilarating episodes, Ripley takes viewers on a thrilling journey deepened by the breathtaking black-and-white cinematography of Robert Elswit, the Oscar-winning cinematographer of There Will Be Blood. Set in Italy, the story follows small-time New York City grifter Tom Ripley, portrayed brilliantly by Andrew Scott, as he tries to assume the life of prosperous playboy Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn). The series mingles cunning cons, gripping suspense, and psychological complexity to ensure a mesmerizing and profound adaptation of the renowned source material.

A Masterpiece of Small-Screen Auteurism

Writer and director Steven Zaillian deserves accolades for his outstanding contribution to Ripley. With a film career spanning three decades and collaborating with Hollywood elites like David Fincher and Martin Scorsese, Zaillian’s latest project might be his greatest accomplishment yet. From its scintillating style to its simmering undercurrent of sociopathic madness, Ripley stands as a work of controlled Machiavellian malevolence, guaranteed to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

The Challenges and Joys of the Production

In a candid interview, Zaillian discussed the complexities of creating a visually captivating series alongside the challenges and triumphs of working with the exceptional cast and crew. Throughout shooting, Zaillian had the creative liberty to execute his vision. This series delivers a visual and narrative experience that falls nothing short of exceptional.

Black and White Brilliance

The decision to shoot the entire series in black and white was a deliberate artistic choice. Inspired by the period and to maintain a dark and sinister tonal quality, the black and white cinematography perfectly complements the story’s noir elements. Zaillian’s vision for the series, combined with the beauty of Italy, ensures that the classical charm and romance of the country is skillfully preserved.

The Collaborative Power of Zaillian and Elswit

Robert Elswit’s masterful cinematography greatly contributes to the series’ success. The collaboration between Zaillian and Elswit proves powerful and seamless. Their shared artistic values and dedication to the craft enable them to bring the story to life in a visually compelling and emotionally resonating manner.

The Captivating Cast

Andrew Scott’s remarkable portrayal of Tom Ripley anchors the series. Scott’s versatility and range on screen, as evidenced by his previous work in movies such as Locke and Sherlock, make him the perfect fit for this complex character. The entire cast’s commitment to capturing the nuances and subtleties of the story elevates the series to new heights, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

A Tale of Timeless Intrigue

Despite being written over 70 years ago, The Talented Mr. Ripley remains a tale infused with universal themes. The timeless appeal of characters transforming into someone else resonates deeply with audiences. Patricia Highsmith’s exceptional storytelling, combined with Zaillian’s evocative adaptation, make for an engrossing narrative that transcends time.

Promising Paths Ahead

The appearance of John Malkovich, even in a small cameo as Reeves, offers a tantalizing hint of possible future seasons. Malkovich’s involvement in the series hints at the potential continuation of adapting the subsequent Ripley novels and his character’s involvement in them. Viewers can only hope for the opportunity to witness Malkovich’s captivating portrayal in future installments.