The main problem with this rehash of the 2 Ripley classics is not the odd black and white decision (in colorful Italy!) It is the casting. Tom presents as a man in his 40s to 50s, much older than the part needs. He looks worn and weary with eye bags and receeding hairline. He huffs and puffs up those the stairs. There is little that is glamorous or sexy about him. This throws all of his relationships into disbelief -- especially with Dickie, his (supposed) contemporary and object of his desire.
Homoeroticism is a core component of the vastly better first 2 films and novel. Alain Delon is perhaps the sexiest actor of his generation, with his icy blue eyes and criminal undercurrent. Matt Damon brought the perfect blend of preppy golden boy with master manipulator. Jude Law is the best Dickie, and Gwyneth Paltrow the best Marge. Both nail the breezy, upper class marks critical to the story. The rest of the cast in the Damon classic is equally superlative.
The question then is, what were they thinking with this latest cast? Almost everyone is miscast. The casting decisions make this version dull and drab, without any of the spark of the two classics. The actors are all fine, they are just wrong for this rehash. It's like remaking Cat On A Hot Tin Roof without actors that can match the beauty and talent of Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman.
Anyway, why even try to attempt a remake of a classic? The audience is better served by watching the 2 outstanding originals. (And they're shorter!) Don't waste your precious time.
Homoeroticism is a core component of the vastly better first 2 films and novel. Alain Delon is perhaps the sexiest actor of his generation, with his icy blue eyes and criminal undercurrent. Matt Damon brought the perfect blend of preppy golden boy with master manipulator. Jude Law is the best Dickie, and Gwyneth Paltrow the best Marge. Both nail the breezy, upper class marks critical to the story. The rest of the cast in the Damon classic is equally superlative.
The question then is, what were they thinking with this latest cast? Almost everyone is miscast. The casting decisions make this version dull and drab, without any of the spark of the two classics. The actors are all fine, they are just wrong for this rehash. It's like remaking Cat On A Hot Tin Roof without actors that can match the beauty and talent of Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman.
Anyway, why even try to attempt a remake of a classic? The audience is better served by watching the 2 outstanding originals. (And they're shorter!) Don't waste your precious time.