One of the most exquisitely styled movies is also one of the most underrated movies of the past decade. Anthony Minghella's take on the seductive and illusory world of Tom Ripley in "The Talented Ripley" made a great impression on me upon its initial release. I remember being really excited about the generation of actors in the film, who at that point hadn't quite cemented their style and cinematic iconography quite yet. The film sumptuously shot on locations in Rome, Venice, and the sultry coasts of Italy presented a certain exoticism about the country. It's almost Italy as you want it to be--inviting, oozing with sensuality, and deliciously full of vitality and vigor. Watching a tawny Gwyneth Paltrow and Jude Law lounge on a posh beach on the Amalfi coast makes you want to jump through the screen and join them. Nights spent at smoky cafes and days spent on boats drinking Campari and swimming contributed to my burgeoning interest in Italy. It's an idealized and romanticized look at a country long ago but an attractive and convincing one nonetheless. "The Talented Mr. Ripley" is definitely part of my memories and reasons for venturing to a land where everyone looks dipped in gold and revels in a life of leisure and comfort.
directed by Anthony Minghella, 1999
Does style like this exist anymore?
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