Viewers say 'phenomenal' Andrew Scott Netflix drama 'betters' original film from 90s

Fans of a 'riveting' new Netflix series are saying it's even better than the beloved 1999 film adaptation of the same novel.

Netflix viewers who didn't think the film - which starred Matt Damon and Jude Law - 'could be bettered' were in for a shock when the TV adaptation dropped earlier this week.

Filmed entirely in black and white and earning comparisons to Saltburn, viewers have been 'totally hooked' by Fleabag star Andrew Scott's 'chilling' central performance.

Set in the grimy streets of 1960s New York and sunny Italy, it follows the story of Tom Ripley (Andrew Scott), who worms his way into a life of privilege at a tragic cost.

The film is based on on Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 novel and is actually the fourth visual adaptation of the book.

In Ripley, Scott's down-on-his-luck grifter is tasked with bringing back his boss’s son, Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn) home from Italy, and getting caught up with crime as he steadily becomes enamoured with the lifestyle.

But obviously, the original 1999 flick The Talented Mr Ripley starring Gwyneth Paltrow, Matt Damon and Jude Law is a classic.

Netflix

The film went on to gross $128 million worldwide, and five Academy Award nominations.

It might be a bold move attempting to remake such a beloved movie, but this eight-part series has some serious star power too, such as the fantastic Dakota Fanning.

Viewers were quick to hop on the hype and took to social media to rave about the show.

A user on X, formerly Twitter wrote: "I’m currently watching a series remake of [The Talented Mr Ripley] on Netflix. It’s called Ripley and it’s amazing. I would dare say it’s even better than the movie."

Another said: “I'm a huge fan of Patricia Highsmith's work and the Ripley books.

"I didn't think the film could be bettered but, my word, this Netflix series is incredible.

"Beautifully shot and Andrew Scott is just magnificent in the titular role. An absolutely stunning production.”

Netflix

Another wrote: “I just finished binging the new Ripley series. It was excellent. Even better than The Talented Mr Ripley movie."

Many were more stunned by the show’s visuals: “Yes, the light! And the depth! The cinematography in Ripley is so gorgeous!

"It seamlessly weaves the Italy's rich artistic and scenic tapestry into the series, alongside the enigmatic sound effects, rendering it exceptionally captivating.”

One person gave it five stars: “Steven Zaillian's Ripley is a riveting adaptation that captivates with its dark allure and meticulous storytelling.

"Andrew Scott embodies the character's complex persona with chilling authenticity. One of the most gorgeously shot shows ever.”

Catch up with Ripley on Netflix now.