Based on the novel The Talented Mr. Ripley, written in 1955, the Netflix limited series, Ripley is set in the 60’s and follows conman, Tom Ripley as he immerses himself in the extravagant lifestyle of his newly-found friend, Dickie Greenleaf, now living in Italy, happy to be away from his family in America.

A slow burn, this series is shot entirely in black and white, and the cinematography is extraordinary as we follow the characters as they travel throughout Italy. While not exactly a likable fellow, Ripley, played by Andrew Scott, takes viewers on a ride that is captivating and enjoyably frustrating as he weaves himself into the lives of Greenleaf, played by Johnny Flynn, and Dakota Fanning as the understated yet endearing Marge.

Some viewers have expressed dissatisfaction in the movie being shot in black and white, but this style lends itself beautifully with the essence of the film. Every shot, angle and scene plays out as an additional character, and the end result is movie magic.

Now showing on Netflix, Ripley, the eight-episode series, needs to be on everyone’s must-watch list, and worthy of consideration at awards time.   

Heidi McCrary