Based on Patricia Highsmith’s acclaimed 1955 crime novel, Ripley is a gripping Hitchcockian thriller that doubles as a chilling character study. This eight episode limited series lights a slow burning fuse that can’t be extinguished, with Andrew Scott’s mesmerizing performance at the centre of it all.
I should start by saying this series is my introduction to these characters and this story. I haven’t read the novels nor have I seen any of the film adaptations, so I went in with a fresh perspective not knowing what to expect. While I do agree that the age of the characters and the actors portraying them is pushing the limit, it’s hard to find many faults beyond that. This is an outstanding piece of storytelling that kept me in suspense from start to finish. The somewhat slow pacing worked very well when it came to developing Tom Ripley as a character, allowing the viewer a glimpse into the mind of a sociopath.
Andrew Scott eats up every moment of screen time with his chameleon-like performance. Ripley is much more than just a con-artist, and we get to see bits and pieces of his troubling personality right from the start. Scott adapts and transforms his mannerisms during each confrontation depending on how Tom Ripley can best benefit himself and slither around the truth. This is an utterly fascinating character portrayed brilliantly by an immensely talented actor. The core focus is on Tom, but the characters around him are well written too. I especially enjoyed Eliot Sunmer as Freddie, and the way he’s able to see through Tom’s facade.
If the suspenseful plot and strong performances aren’t already enough to get you hooked, you’ll be captivated by how visually stunning this series is. The inky black and white presentation captures the beauty of 1960’s Italy in breathtaking fashion. Nearly every frame is a work of art, filled with a striking level of depth and texture. The way light and shadow are contrasted against one another is nothing short of masterful. This is an early front runner for the best looking show of 2024. The sound design is equally rich, and if you’re the owner of a decent home theatre setup, you’re in for a treat. From the clapping of dress shoes on creaky hardwood floorboards to the gliding of an expensive pen as Tom forges yet another signature - it all sounds great.
Mr. Tom Ripley is a chameleon, and the talented Andrew Scott completely disappears into the role. This slow burn crime caper is narratively gripping, visually stunning and carried by Scott’s brilliant lead performance. Don’t miss out on one of the best series of the year. It would be a crime.
4.5/5