Quartey’s Film Reviews: “Ripley” on Netflix

“Ripley:” Believe it. Or not

Plot Overview

"Ripley" centers around the enigmatic character, Tom Ripley, a skilled con man whose talent for imitation and deception leads him into a web of intrigue and danger. Ripley's manipulative prowess is his greatest asset and most perilous liability as he navigates a world filled with wealthy elites and criminal underbellies.

Cast Highlights

Andrew Scott performs compellingly, often creepily, as Tom Ripley, bringing depth and complexity to the role. His portrayal captures the charm and menace of the character, making it a standout in his already impressive career.

Behind The Scenes

Andrew Scott, fresh from his role in the recent LGBTQ-themed "All of Us Strangers" alongside Clair Foyle, brings a nuanced understanding of complex characters to this series. His experience enriches his portrayal of Ripley, adding layers of intrigue and humanity.

Commentary

While "Ripley" is not the first adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's novels—previous versions starred notable actors like Matt Damon and John Malkovich—this rendition stands out. Filmed in stunning black and white, the visual style adds a timeless, spellbinding quality to the series. Although the plot sometimes stretches believability, it remains a fascinating exploration of deception and identity. The fact is that people really do achieve these high levels of deception.

Wrap-up and Rating

"Ripley" is a riveting series that hooks viewers from the start and is a must-watch on Netflix. It excels in every aspect, from storyline and screenplay to acting, direction, and character arcs, earning it a rare 5-star rating.

 

Storyline: 5/5

• The storyline is intriguing and well-crafted, providing a complex web of deceit and identity that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Screenplay: 5/5

• The screenplay is sharp and sophisticated, effectively translating Patricia Highsmith's novel to the screen with dialogue and scenarios that build tension and develop character depth.

Acting: 5/5

• The acting is exceptional, particularly Andrew Scott’s portrayal of Tom Ripley, which adds layers of nuance to an already compelling character. The supporting cast also delivers strong performances that complement the lead.

Directing: 5/5

• The directing is masterful, utilizing a black and white aesthetic that enhances the mood and suspense of the narrative. The choice of shots and the pacing are meticulously handled to maintain intrigue and emotion.

Character Arcs: 5/5

• The character development is outstanding, with each character undergoing significant transformations that are believable and impactful. Ripley’s evolution, in particular, is both fascinating and unsettling, making for a compelling watch.

"Ripley" is a riveting series that hooks viewers from the start and is a must-watch on Netflix. It excels in every aspect, from storyline and screenplay to acting, direction, and character arcs, earning a very rare 5-star rating.