On Netflix
The Netflix show “Ripley” is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the exploits of the charming yet deeply disturbed Tom Ripley. Based on the novels by Patricia Highsmith, the series stars Andrew Scott in a captivating performance as the cunning and manipulative Ripley, who becomes obsessed with assuming the identity of a wealthy young man named Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn).
The show is an intense character study that dives into Ripley’s twisted psyche as he ingratiates himself into Dickie’s life and gradually sheds his own identity in favor of Dickie’s privileged existence. The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Ripley and those around him, including Dickie’s girlfriend Marge (Dakota Fanning), keeps the tension high throughout. The lush Italian settings and jazz-inflected score add an elegant, stylish flair to the proceedings.
While “Ripley” may not be as flashy or action-packed as some other recent psychological thrillers, its methodical pacing and Andrew Scott’s mesmerizing lead performance make it a must-watch for fans of the genre and the source material. It’s a slow burn, but a consistently compelling one that goes deep into the mind of one of literature’s most fascinating anti-heroes.