"The evocative jazz soundtrack haunts as images from
Anthony Minghella's tale of obsession, ambition and deceit flash
onto the screen. The Talented Mr Ripley is an intriguing tale and
the message about being a fake somebody instead of a real nobody
is indeed a thought provoking one. On DVD there is nothing to mar
the splendid look and sound of the film – and Italy has
never looked more beautiful.
In a 20 minute special feature called 'Inside the Talented Mr
Ripley', Minghella and the members of cast talk about the film,
the characters and capturing the period and the Blue Note sound
of the 50s. Minghella tells how he felt personally connected to
the book and how crucial it was to find the right Ripley, which
he did when he saw Matt Damon in Good Will Hunting. Dickie was
perhaps the hardest character to cast, and Jude Law's
charismatic, unbearably handsome persona perfectly fit the bill.
Gwyneth Paltrow was the first person cast, and executive producer
Sydney Pollack tells of her absolute star quality and what a joy
she is to be around. It's good to hear Damon, Law, Paltrow and
Blanchett talk about their characters in their own words.
Minghella's dense full-length director's commentary is
terrific entertainment – we get a whole new perspective on
the characters and an insight into how this talented director
works. Music plays a huge role, and the kinetic improvisations of
the jazz symbolise living for the moment, and the intoxication of
the freedom so eagerly sought by Ripley. Ripley could be
represented by Bach, whereas Dickie belongs to the laid-back
world of Charlie Parker. We glide easily into this gorgeous world
of privilege, class and intoxication. This is the world where
Ripley desperately wants to belong.
In 'Making the Soundtrack' feature, Minghella talks about his
collaboration with composer Gabriel Yared and how music becomes a
character. Classical is the uptight planner character while Jazz
is fast and loose. Damon spent months learning to play the piano,
while Law's efforts went into learning to play the saxophone. And
who could forget that wonderful climactic jazz club scene that
epitomises the impromptu. You'll enjoy the two music video clips
– My Funny Valentine performed by Matt Damon and the Guy
Barker International Quartet, plus Tu Vuo Fa L'Americano, which
compels us to sing, tap and move to the rhythms. You can view the
original theatrical trailer, plus you can read biographies of the
main cast and crew, including cinematographer John Seale.
This is a treat of a DVD: we feel privileged to have been in
the company of Minghella, whose insight into the film makes it an
even more enjoyable experience."
Louise Keller
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We gratefully acknowledge the complimentary use
of a DVD player from Philips.
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