In the brand new limited series “Ripley,” set to premiere on Netflix on April 4th, Andrew Scott takes on the titular role of Tom Ripley. This intriguing character, originally created by author Patricia Highsmith in her bestselling novels, is a grifter struggling to make ends meet in 1960s New York.
The series follows Ripley as he is hired by a wealthy man to travel to Italy and convince his wayward son to return home. However, this seemingly straightforward task becomes the catalyst for a complex and dangerous life filled with deception, fraud, and even murder.
Andrew Scott, known for his winning performances in shows like “Sherlock” and “Fleabag,” as well as acclaimed new movie “All Of Us Strangers,” steps into the shoes of Tom Ripley with his signature intensity and charisma.
Joining Scott in the cast are Dakota Fanning as Marge Sherwood and Johnny Flynn as Dickie Greenleaf. The ensemble also includes Elliot Sumner, Maurizio Lombardi, Margherita Buy, and John Malkovich in supporting roles.
Leading the creative team behind “Ripley” is executive producer Steven Zaillian, who has an impressive track record with acclaimed projects such as “Schindler’s List” and “The Night Of.”
Alongside Zaillian are executive producers Garrett Basch, Clayton Townsend, Guymon Casady, Ben Forkner, Sharon Levy, and Philipp Keel of Diogenes. Andrew Scott himself will also serve as a producer on the series.
All eight episodes of “Ripley” were both directed and written by Steven Zaillian. It’s always good when a single vision controls things, allowing for a unified vision and narrative.
Patricia Highsmith, born on January 19, 1921, was an American author known for her psychological thrillers and suspenseful storytelling. She gained widespread acclaim for her series of novels featuring the character Tom Ripley, starting with “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” published in 1955.
Highsmith’s writing style was characterized by its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and its ability to delve into the minds of complex characters. Her works often delved into themes such as identity, guilt, obsession, and morality.
“The Talented Mr. Ripley” introduced readers to Tom Ripley, a charming but morally ambiguous protagonist who becomes involved in a world of crime and deceit. The novel follows Ripley as he assumes the identity of Dickie Greenleaf and becomes entangled in a web of lies that escalates to murder.
Highsmith continued to develop the character of Tom Ripley throughout four more novels: “Ripley Under Ground” (1970), “Ripley’s Game” (1974), “The Boy Who Followed Ripley” (1980), and “Ripley Under Water” (1991). In these books, Highsmith further explores Ripley’s psyche and his descent into increasingly dangerous situations.
The success of Highsmith’s Tom Ripley series lies not only in its gripping plots but also in its exploration of the complexities of human behavior. Highsmith had a remarkable ability to create morally ambiguous characters who challenge traditional notions of right and wrong. Readers are drawn into their internal struggles and forced to confront their own perceptions about morality.
“Ripley” is set to debut exclusively on Netflix on April 4th, offering viewers around the world the opportunity to delve into this complex tale of ambition and betrayal.
“Ripley” is co-produced by Showtime and Endemol Shine North America in association with Entertainment 360 and Filmrights.
