NEW YORK – Embark on another journey to the enchanting, cobbled streets of the Amalfi Coast, indulging in coffee at quaint cafes and seeking the sweet life. Of course, the adventure wouldn’t be complete without the presence of our beloved anti-hero, right?
Tom Ripley returns in the captivating new Netflix series “Ripley,” set to premiere on April 4, bringing to life the enduring character crafted by novelist Patricia Highsmith in “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” Steven Zaillian, the mastermind behind the eight-episode adaptation serving as creator, director, and writer, delves into the intriguing complexity of rooting for a character we inherently know we shouldn’t like.
Andrew Scott steps into the role of Ripley, a resourceful con artist operating in the gritty backdrop of New York, tasked with tracking down a wealthy playboy in Italy. However, his assignment takes a dark turn as he resorts to murder and identity theft, spiraling into a web of deception and crime.
Navigating through the intricacies of Ripley’s calculated maneuvers, viewers witness his meticulous orchestration of cover-ups and escapes in real-time, such as the chilling murder sequence unfolding in his apartment. Zaillian emphasizes the immersive experience of unraveling Ripley’s thought process alongside the audience, blurring the lines between complicity and observation.
In a departure from conventional storytelling, the series adopts a deliberate pace, allowing moments of introspection and tension to simmer. Dakota Fanning, portraying the suspicious girlfriend entangled in Ripley’s schemes, highlights the power of subtle expressions and non-verbal communication in conveying underlying motives and emotions.
Remaining true to Highsmith’s original vision, Zaillian preserves the early 1960s setting, capturing the essence of the era through a monochromatic lens that mirrors the stark realism of “Schindler’s List.” The narrative thrives on the unspoken dynamics, focusing on nuanced gestures and silent exchanges that speak volumes amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and deceit.
As Ripley grapples with the repercussions of his actions, portrayed with understated intensity by Scott, the series delves into the flawed humanity of a character navigating a morally ambiguous world. Johnny Flynn, embodying the charismatic Dickie Greenleaf, reflects on the contrast between the picturesque Italian landscapes and the underlying darkness lurking beneath the surface, echoing the noir sensibilities of the narrative.
From the bustling streets of New York to the hauntingly beautiful vistas of Italy, “Ripley” immerses viewers in a world where every decision carries weight, and every glance holds hidden intentions. As the characters ascend staircases, gaze at the horizon, and engage in seemingly mundane conversations, the tension mounts, leading to a crescendo of suspense and revelation.
Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits