Steven Zaillian’s neo-noir adaptation of Ripley is a visual gem. Crafted with exquisite chiaroscuro finesse reminiscent of neorealist Italian films and the noir era of Hollywood, Ripley takes you through the streets of New York City to the sunny shores of Italy. But it obscures every colour that might reflect any vivid moments of joy and drowns the world created by Patricia Highsmith into one full of tension and magnificent beauty.
Amidst this backdrop, Andrew Scott, as our titular Tom Ripley, navigates the black and white vistas from the bustling streets of NYC to the sun-soaked shores of Italy in search of Dickie Greenleaf (portrayed by Johnny Flynn) and Marge Sherwood (enacted by Dakota Fanning).
As riveting as the performances are, the cinematography is the real star in this black-and-white thriller. In addition to Robert Elswit’s stunning camera work, the show’s setting keeps adding to its beauty. The enchanting locales that serve as a backdrop to Tom Ripley’s journey.
From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Italy, each location adds its own layer of playfulness to the tale. Ripley hops around from Naples to Atrani, Sanremo, Palermo, and even Venice. Read on to know more about the landmark places Ripley was filmed in and the moments that defined those places on the show.
New York City
The journey commences in the heart of New York amidst the industrial boxiness of the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Here, amid the echoes of clanging steel and towering cranes, Tom Ripley is offered an opportunity of a lifetime that sets the stage for a narrative that transcends continents. It is here that Dickie’s father mistakes his and Ripley’s friendship to be more than what it ever was and sends him off to Italy to get Dickie to return home.
Atrani
Yet, it’s the scenic allure of Italy that truly steals the spotlight. Venturing beyond the cobblestoned streets and aquamarine seas, Ripley transports us to the picturesque Amalfi Coast. Nestled within the province of Salerno lies Atrani, a hilltop town straight out of a postcard. Zaillian told Netflix how he drove along the coastline with production designer David Gropman. Amid all the modernised and gentrified cities, they two stumbled upon Atrani, “a village of about 800 people called Atrani, that we found perfect.”
This is where Dickie and Marge have been nestled in. Dickie lives in a luxurious villa with panoramic views of the ocean. This is where Marge hangs out the most when she is not working on her novel. But her place is threatened as Dickie invites Tom to live with him.
Rome
Further afield, the eternal city of Rome beckons, with its iconic landmarks and ancient ruins. From the majestic Spanish Steps to the grandeur of the Palazzo dei Congressi, Tom Ripley prances around the city pretending to be Dickie.
Sicily
Sicily, with its rich history and culture, provides yet another captivating backdrop to the narrative. From the bustling streets of Palermo to the awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Etna, the island exudes an air of mystery and intrigue, perfectly complementing Tom Ripley’s rise to notoriety as he becomes increasingly confident in his elaborate scams.
Venice
Finally, there’s Venice, the city of canals, more arches, and dreams. Here, amidst the labyrinthine waterways and gothic architecture, Tom Ripley’s journey reaches its climax as he slips back into his true identity for the time being in order to dupe everyone one last time…unless, of course, the limited series goes for another season.
