In 1955, novelist, Patricia Highsmith published a psychological thriller book titled, “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” It follows a con man named, Tom Ripley. He’s tasked by a businessman to travel to Italy and bring his son, Dickie home. Ripley accepts the job. After befriending Dickie and his girlfriend, Marge, the plan to bring the rich man’s son didn’t work. So, Ripley becomes obsessed with Dickie. The Talented Mr. Ripley spawned four books with the titular character going on further misadventures. In 1960, the first book was adapted in 1960 under, “Purple Noon.” I haven’t seen it, but I discovered it’s part of The Criterion Collection. Thirty-Nine Years Later, the book was adapted again with Ben Affleck’s bestie, Matt Damon portraying Ripley.
Released in 1999, (same year The Matrix came out it) The Talented Mr. Ripley earned positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to praise, the film also made revenue at the box office. It earned five Oscar nominations including “Best Supporting Actor,” (Jude Law) “Best Adapted Screenplay,” (Anthony Minghella) & “Best Original Score.”
I’m gonna be brutally honest, I didn’t realize The Talented Mr. Ripley exists. That’s right, I never read the book. At first, I thought it was a prequel to the “Alien series” focusing on Ellen Ripley’s father. Anyway, the book’s gonna be adapted as a mini-series on Netflix. This time, Andrew Scott (Professor Moriarty from Sherlock) will portray Ripley. Before it airs on April 4, 2024, I wanna share my thoughts on the 1999 movie. One reason why I’m psyched to see Netflix’s mini-series, Dakota Fanning’s in it. I’m a huge fan of her work.
This review contains no huge SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to read the book or watch the movie.
Rich & Poor Qualities
Rich: Matt Damon did a superb job for his performance as the title character.
Fun Fact 1: Matt considers The Talented Mr. Ripley as his favorite movie of his career.
Fun Fact 2: Two of my favorite actors, Tom Cruise & Edward Norton were considered for the lead role. They dropped out, due to scheduling conflicts with “Magnolia” & “Fight Club.”
Other Cast Members such as Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Philip Seymour Hoffman, (may he Rest in Peace) Cate Blanchett & Jack Davenport all did a solid job for their respective performances.
Anthony Minghella (The English Patient, Cold Mountain) did a decent job directing. He also wrote the script.
Sydney Pollack (The Firm, Eyes Wide Shut) served as an executive producer.
Cinematography didn’t have any technical issues present.
Pacing didn’t feel like a drab. I didn’t look at the clock feeling bored. Thankfully it wasn’t a complete waste of time like “The English Patient.”
Primary Themes are Identity, Deception, Wealth, Leisure & Obsession. Each one’s handled carefully.
The late Philip Baker Hall (Hard Eight, Boogie Nights, Magnolia) makes a brief appearance.
I can’t tell you how it ends. You’ll have to see for yourself.
Poor: One character utters out a line I hate used in most movies and shows. “Looks like you’ve seen a ghost.” Every time I hear that line, I groan in displeasure. Here’s a better way to say it. “Looks like you’ve seen Patrick Swayze.”
The Final Verdict: A-
Despite one gripe, The Talented Mr. Ripley is a great movie. If you’re into psychological thrillers, it’s definitely worth your spare time.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 