Year:
1999
Studio:
Paramount Pictures/Miramax Pictures
Movie:
4/5
DVD:
4/5
Movie
"The Talented Mr Ripley" reminds me of the television show "Pretender",
but this time set in the late 1950's. Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) is the
Pretender, someone whose talents are forgery, mimicry, and
impersonation. A poor man, he meets Herbert Greenleaf (James Rebhorn),
who mistakes him for a Harvard Man and probably a friend of his son
Dickie (Jude Law).
Dickie is in Italy living life and avoiding his responsibilities. His
father gives $1000 to Tom to go to Italy and convince Dickie to return
home. Once in Italy, Tom insinuates himself into the life of Dickie and
his girlfriend (Gwyneth Paltrow). Dickie is like the sun: when he
shines on you life is great, when he ignores you life is bleak. Tom
wants into that life, but what happens when Dickie decides that Tom is
no longer interesting?
This movie was filmed in Italy, with gorgeous views of the countryside
and towns along the coast. It is a drama with some thriller elements
and the ending, although good, was morally unsatisfying. Still, it's a
well filmed movie and the story flows along it's almost two hour length.
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Actors
Jude Law I already knew is a good actor from watching him on "Gattaca".
Matt Damon though I've always thought as being overrated. I mean, "Good
Will Hunting" was not that great a performance. But this movie he gave
an outstanding performance. Gwyneth Paltrow didn't have much of a role,
but she does have a look that's suited to the era and did act well.
DVD
There is a 15-minute talk with the actors segment which is interesting.
Also insightful (and with different information too) is the 20-minute
behind the scenes. Two music videos (from the night club scene), two
trailers, and an 8-minute segment discussing the musical score add to
the excellent extras. The Director's commentary is a lot of information
but I had a hard time paying attention.
Recommendations
It's a good movie and with lots of goodies a good buy even if new. Well
recommended.
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