Netflix’s Ripley: A New Take on a Classic Character

Netflix’s upcoming limited series Ripley—premiering globally on 4 April—promises to breathe new life into Patricia Highsmith’s classic character Tom Ripley, previously portrayed on screen by the likes of Matt Damon and Alain Delon. The show’s trailer has created a buzz, offering a fresh and stylish take on Highsmith’s fascinating anti-hero.

Tom Ripley, a con artist and grifter, is played by Andrew Scott. Scott’s involvement in the project is a coup, following his acclaimed performances in Sherlock and Fleabag and recent movie All of Us Strangers. In Ripley, Scott’s Ripley is seen scraping by in 1960s New York, until he’s offered a life-changing opportunity.

Hired by a wealthy industrialist, Ripley is tasked with convincing the industrialist’s son, Dickie Greenleaf, to return home from Italy. Ripley, a charming and cultured individual, is captivated by Dickie’s luxurious lifestyle and decides to insert himself into the young elite’s world. But as the series progresses, Ripley’s obsession with the wealthy playboy turns dark, and he resorts to deceit, fraud, and even murder, to maintain his new life.

Scott has described his approach to the iconic character as an attempt to create his own understanding of Ripley, throwing out previous portrayals and opinions. This new adaptation is Scott’s chance to make the role his own.

The series is written, directed, and executive produced by Oscar winner Steven Zaillian (The Irishman, The Night Of) who, in an interview with Vanity Fair, emphasised his desire to remain faithful to Highsmith’s vision. Zaillian explained that the black-and-white cinematography helps put viewers inside Ripley’s complex mind.

Ripley is Scott’s first leading role in a TV series, and the actor also serves as a producer. He is joined by a talented cast, including Dakota Fanning as Dickie’s girlfriend, Marge Sherwood, and Johnny Flynn as Dickie Greenleaf.

The show’s source material is Highsmith’s bestselling Ripley novels, collectively known as ‘the Ripliad‘. The American novelist introduced the world to Tom Ripley in The Talented Mr. Ripley in 1955, and the character’s complexity and charm have ensured his enduring popularity. Ripley’s ability to win over readers—despite his despicable deeds—was Highsmith’s masterstroke.

The five novels—The Talented Mr. Ripley, Ripley Under Ground, Ripley’s Game, The Boy Who Followed Ripley, and Ripley Under Water—are saturated with suspense as Ripley repeatedly evades capture following his murders.

I’m looking forward to seeing whether the show reaches the high standards that it promises, no doubt Scott will be a stand out as he always is.

Ripley premieres on Netflix on 4 April.