Patricia Highsmith’s iconic 1955 crime novel, “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” stands as a cornerstone of the thriller genre. Its legacy extends through numerous film adaptations, notably Anthony Minghella’s 1999 rendition starring Matt Damon and Jude Law. Given the resounding success of the cinematic interpretation, the transition to a series for the streaming age was almost inevitable.
After migrating from Showtime to Netflix, “Ripley” sees Andrew Scott embodying the enigmatic titular character. Helmed by Academy Award-winning writer-director Steven Zaillian, known for masterpieces like “Schindler’s List” and the acclaimed HBO series “The Night Of,” this adaptation offers a unique spin on the psychological thriller. However, this iteration of “Ripley” veers into darker, more unsettling territory, rendering the viewing experience more challenging than captivating.
Captured in captivating black and white, “Ripley” unveils its gripping narrative amidst the grandeur of Rome in 1961, where a man struggles to conceal a lifeless body down a majestic marble staircase. Yet, this scene merely serves as a prelude to the tale’s genesis. Rewinding six months, we’re transported to the gritty streets of New York’s Lower East Side—a stark contrast to its modern-day portrayal in media, teeming with less savory characters.
Within the confines of a cramped, vermin-infested apartment, we encounter Ripley, a small-time crook surviving by duping chiropractic patients out of their cash. As his latest hustle begins to wither, fate intervenes, presenting him with an opportunity that alters his trajectory indefinitely.
A chance encounter at a local bar thrusts Ripley into the orbit of a private investigator (portrayed by the underutilized Bokeem Woodbine), who mistakes him for an acquaintance of his affluent client’s son. Before long, Ripley finds himself aboard a vessel bound for Italy, tasked with persuading his supposed “friend,” Dickie Greenleaf (embodied by Johnny Flynn), to return to his worried family.
Viewing this all-expenses-paid voyage and the Greenleafs’ opulent lifestyle as his ticket to the existence he covets, Ripley embarks on a treacherous journey riddled with falsehoods, treachery, and murder.
In its inaugural episode, “Ripley” showcases an abundance of visual allure but falters in terms of narrative engagement. The series reveals its flaws early on, particularly regarding character dynamics. Given that the protagonists are portrayed as older individuals (both Scott and Flynn being over 40), the premise of the Greenleafs entrusting a stranger with the task of locating their grown son strains credulity. Furthermore, Tom’s aloof demeanor lacks the necessary warmth or familiarity required to convincingly execute the deception at hand.