The upcoming limited series “Ripley,” set to arrive in 2024, takes us on a suspense-filled journey through 1960s Italy, exploring the intriguing world of Patricia Highsmith‘s Tom Ripley novels. The series, created by Academy Award winner Steve Zaillian, known for “The Irishman” and “The Night Of,” brings a fresh adaptation of this captivating story to the screen.
Andrew Scott, known for his performances in “All of Us Strangers” and “Fleabag,” takes on the lead role of Tom Ripley. The series follows Ripley, a grifter in early ’60s New York, who finds himself embroiled in a life-altering mission. Hired by a wealthy industrialist, he travels to Italy with the task of convincing the industrialist’s son, Dickie Greenleaf, played by Johnny Flynn of “Lovesick” and “Emma,” to return to New York. This mission marks the start of a complex web of deceit, fraud, and murder that defines Ripley’s character.
Dakota Fanning joins the cast as Marge Sherwood, Dickie’s girlfriend, adding a layer of complexity to the story. Her character becomes increasingly suspicious of Tom’s intentions, hinting at the darker undertones of his charming façade. The series is scheduled for a Netflix release in 2024.
The character of Tom Ripley is not new to audiences. Matt Damon previously portrayed this character in the 1999 film adaptation “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” Directed by Anthony Minghella, the film was set in the 1950s and depicted Ripley’s journey from New York City to Italy on a similar mission involving Dickie Greenleaf. The film, which also starred Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett, and Philip Seymour Hoffman, was both a critical and commercial success, grossing $128 million worldwide and receiving five Academy Award nominations.
The 2024 “Ripley” series offers a unique interpretation of Highsmith’s character, exploring the depths of his psychological complexities. Set against the picturesque backdrop of 1960s Italy, the series explores the thrilling world of a con man whose actions spiral into a dangerous game of deceit and murder. This adaptation will attract both long-time fans of the novels and those new to the story of Tom Ripley.
