The obvious for me which has not been mentioned in reviews I have read yet,, is the character of Freddie. Freddie was ruined . Hoffman's portrayal of a bloated champagne filled mosquito was obliterated by the casting of Sumner, A pubescent, "boyish" figure that lacked any sort of rhyme reason, other than a "wow"factor.
However, this adaptation brings new life and perspective to a classic thriller. Diving into the backstory of Tom Ripley and the reasons for his desperate lucky circumstances that brought him to Italy put this version in a more complete picture. I found the cinematography, beautiful and knowing that it was filmed in the exact locations, no fake town, names, etc. Made it all the more beautiful, wondrous and enthralling. I also enjoyed a different take on Dickie Greenleaf. Nit a party till the sun comes up hopeless, jazz player, but a person who, despite coming from money, had a heart and depth (albeit monotone) and the sense of just wanting to be.
I felt the work that goes into being a predator, the endless staircases, the constant observations when to stay still, and when to pounce up the staircase down staircase ,hit bleed, clean, repeat take a sip of wine..survive. Brutality and calculation without judgment, just the thought of survival.
Yes, this version is different. Yes, this version reminds me of Hitchcock and yet it is of the now and ahead of its time.
However, this adaptation brings new life and perspective to a classic thriller. Diving into the backstory of Tom Ripley and the reasons for his desperate lucky circumstances that brought him to Italy put this version in a more complete picture. I found the cinematography, beautiful and knowing that it was filmed in the exact locations, no fake town, names, etc. Made it all the more beautiful, wondrous and enthralling. I also enjoyed a different take on Dickie Greenleaf. Nit a party till the sun comes up hopeless, jazz player, but a person who, despite coming from money, had a heart and depth (albeit monotone) and the sense of just wanting to be.
I felt the work that goes into being a predator, the endless staircases, the constant observations when to stay still, and when to pounce up the staircase down staircase ,hit bleed, clean, repeat take a sip of wine..survive. Brutality and calculation without judgment, just the thought of survival.
Yes, this version is different. Yes, this version reminds me of Hitchcock and yet it is of the now and ahead of its time.