Andrew Scott, known for his roles in “Fleabag” and “Spectre,” recently opened up about his portrayal of Tom Ripley in the new Netflix series. The series, based on Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 novel “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” explores the morally ambiguous and complex character of Ripley, distinct from the version Matt Damon portrayed in 1999.
Scott challenges the label of ‘evil’ often associated with Ripley, arguing that such terms are too extreme. He describes Ripley as a character enveloped in moral grayness, a trait that makes him intriguing rather than monstrous. Scott is drawn to the human aspects of Ripley, noting his intelligence and talent, which are overshadowed by his flaws and missteps driven by necessity rather than malevolence.
A New Perspective on a Classic Character
In his interpretation, Scott focuses on the humanity of Ripley, distancing him from typical villainous archetypes like Moriarty. He finds joy in exploring the vulnerabilities and lighter sides of Ripley, which add depth to his on-screen persona. This approach offers viewers a new way to engage with a character that has been adapted multiple times across different media.
Scott’s commitment to preserving the enigmatic nature of Ripley aligns with Highsmith’s original portrayal. He avoids defining Ripley too narrowly, be it through psychiatric labels or other fixed identifiers, which he believes would diminish the character’s profound ambiguity. According to Scott, the essence of Highsmith’s writing lies in the unknowable, the aspects of Ripley that evade easy answers or categorization.
Reflections on Bringing Ripley to Life
As Ripley returns to screens, Scott reflects on the challenges and delights of bringing such a complex figure to life. He emphasizes the importance of not fully resolving the character’s mysteries, which he argues are central to Ripley’s enduring fascination. Scott’s portrayal invites audiences to explore the depths of a character that defies simple interpretation, making “Ripley” a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven narratives.