Rated 4.3 out of 5 by AlloCiné viewers, Ripley stands out as the Netflix series of 2024. With a bold production brimming with style and sophistication, Andrew Scott’s stunning interpretation, and Steve Zailian’s signature writing, the series delivers on mesmerizing. Rereading Patricia Highsmith’s iconic novel.
Fascinating aesthetics and bold bias
In a serial landscape that is often saturated with color and, above all, ultra-formatted, Ripley stands out with a bold aesthetic choice: black and white. Masterstroke seems like a roll of the dice on the part of Steve Zailian, who directed the eight episodes, but fits perfectly with the identity of the series, which is set in the early 60s.
This visual treatment gives this mini-series a timeless elegance and emphasizes the dramatic tension that permeates each scene. Each shot is designed like a painting, glorifying both the Italian landscape and the cozy atmosphere of the 1960s.
Andrew Scott: The Unforgettable Tom Ripley
Already known for his charismatic performances (the sexy priest in Fleabag, James Bond’s nemesis in Spectre), Andrew Scott gives a masterful performance here. He plays a complex Tom Ripley, both charming and disturbing.
His refined performance reveals the flaws of a character who is willing to do anything to climb the ranks of society, even if it means manipulating and eliminating those who stand in his way. It also brings into sharp relief all the ambivalence of Ripley, who forms a close bond with Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn) through a mixture of friendship, admiration, desire and jealousy.
“Steven Zailian, creator of Ripley, wins the Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Miniseries or a Movie Made for Television.“
Steve Zailian reinvents a timeless classic
After two successful film adaptations – one of which was worthy of a masterpiece (René Clement’s “Plein Soleil” in 1960 and Anthony Minghella’s “Le Talentueux Mr. Ripley” in 1999), Steve Zailian managed to bring a new dimension to the story.
His crisp and precise writing explores the gray areas of the human soul with disturbing acuity. Every dialogue, every silence resonates with a rare intensity. He manages to inject humor into even the most tragic moments, especially when Tom tries to finish off Dick.
well-deserved success
Between its striking aesthetic, vivid interpretation, and captivating story, Ripley leaves a lasting impression. Crowned the best Netflix series of the year by AlloCiné viewers – averaging 4.3 out of 5 (4.33 according to the analytics tool used in this top) for 779 notes and 107 reviews at the time we write these lines – it proves that great classics can still surprise and charm.
And viewers didn’t hold back their enthusiasm, sometimes writing real declarations of love for the series. Definitely a work not to be missed.
What are your other four favorite Netflix series of the year?
In 2024, Netflix managed to captivate viewers with series that are as diverse as they are impressive. Here are four other community favorites:
– One Day: Inspired by David Nicholls’ iconic novel, this adaptation follows Dexter and Emma, two friends whose fates intersect on the same day every year. The series Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall gets an average rating of 4.3 (4.24 exactly according to our analysis tool).
With sensitive narration and poignant interpretation, the series accurately reflects the evolution of human relationships over several decades.
– The Gentlemen: This spin-off from Guy Ritchie’s cinematic universe, directed by Theo James, takes the dark humor and edgy action that made the film of the same name a success.
The action comedy averages a 4.2 (4.16 according to our tool). Between criminal intrigue and delicious dialogue, this series promises twists and turns with a completely wild cast.
– Dead Boy Detectives: Adapted from Neil Gaiman’s comics, this fantasy series follows two young ghosts (George Rackstrew and Jayden Revere) who investigate supernatural mysteries.
Blending horror, humor and emotion, Dead Boy Detectives is a real gem for fans of the gothic and paranormal. This fantasy drama averages 4.1 (4.08 according to our analysis tool).
– My Little Deer: Based on the true story of author and actor Richard Gadd, this intense series chronicles his confrontation with a fan-turned-stalker. A moving work, both intimate and disturbing, that questions the boundaries between admiration and obsession, but also talks about sexual violence against men.
A true global phenomenon, Richard Gadd’s autofiction averages 4.0 out of 5.
With this eclectic selection, Netflix continues its status as a must-have platform for series fans.
* The rating ended on December 2, 2024 and was determined using an internal analytical tool based on the ratings of French productions released in cinemas in 2024 and having a minimum audience rating of 100.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
