Wednesday, May 15, 2013

HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT: The Talented Mr. Ripley


On this edition of Hit me with your best shot, we stick with the Italian setting of last week's film with the late Anthony Minghella's "The Talented Mr. Ripley". This was my second viewing of the film and I must say, it was much better than I remembered it. I would be hard-pressed to point out its flaws, as I think it's quite outstanding all around. I loved the music, the cinematography, the dialogue and of course, the phenomenal cast. I even noticed the editing as there wasn't a dull moment in the film. What makes it all the more impressive is that it all feels so effortless. It's not exactly flashy, but there were many fantastic shots to choose from.

Click below for my favourite shot...


My favourite shot comes from an early part of the film, before it takes a dark turn. Dickie (Jude Law) catches Tom (Matt Damon) goofing around in his clothes, causing him to hide behind a mirror in embarrassment. This sets up this clever shot with Tom's head on top of Dickie's body. Dickie then asks...

"I wish you'd get out of my clothes."

Unbeknownst to Dickie, this foreshadows the identity theft to come. I've read reviews claiming that Damon is unconvincing due to his lack of menace, but to me his performance is more chilling because of it. In my opinion, his pleasant, unassuming demeanor makes him effectively creepy.
Much like those unconvinced critics, Dickie has underestimated Tom. Well, it's all fun and games until someone dies!

12 comments:

  1. it's a good pick! I like this film very much. Jude Law is great here

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    1. Thanks. Jude Law was so great in this film. Definitely deserved that Oscar nomination.

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  2. Love that pick! That's a really stunning shot. I really love this movie actually and think Matt Damon was great in it.

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    1. I agree, the film and Damon are so underrated.

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  3. I recently watched "Purple Noon" which I think was the first adaptation of this story, and I loved this version way more. Thanks for posting this you made me want to seek this out again

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    1. I'm glad my post inspired you. :)

      Thanks for the comment.

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  4. This was my original choice! It's such a beautiful film, it was hard to choose just one. And I agree with you on Damon's casting: his lack of menace makes him so much more creepy and fascinating.

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  5. GREAT choice. That is a perfect and telling shot in a rather remarkable little film. Good call.

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  6. Great choice. I also love the bloody statue!

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