The year is winding down, and it’s time to look back on Netflix’s standout moments in 2024. Among its vast catalog of releases, one series has captured hearts and critical acclaim, rising to the top as the platform’s finest offering of the year.
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Ripley: Netflix’s Crown Jewel of 2024
Scoring an impressive 4.3 out of 5, Ripley has been hailed as Netflix’s best series of the year, thanks to its bold visual storytelling, compelling performances, and masterful writing. Adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s classic novel, this mini-series offers a fresh and daring take on a timeless story. Under the direction of Steve Zaillian, known for his razor-sharp scripts, Ripley becomes an immersive and stylish journey into human ambition and moral ambiguity.
What sets Ripley apart is its bold choice of aesthetic. Shot entirely in black and white, the series oozes elegance and drama, reflecting its 1960s setting with remarkable authenticity. The cinematography transforms each scene into a work of art, showcasing the glamour of Italian landscapes and the shadowy undertones of its morally complex characters. This choice isn’t just for style—it heightens the tension and emotional depth, making each frame unforgettable.
Ripley creator Steven Zaillian wins the Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. pic.twitter.com/PYEuXKDMT7
— Netflix (@netflix) September 16, 2024
Andrew Scott’s Mesmerizing Performance
It’s impossible to talk about Ripley without praising Andrew Scott, who delivers a career-defining performance as the enigmatic Tom Ripley. Known for his roles as the “hot priest” in Fleabag and a chilling Bond villain in Spectre, Scott brings a magnetic energy to the character.
Ripley’s duality—his charm and chilling ambition—are captured with breathtaking nuance. Watching him manipulate those around him, including Dickie Greenleaf (played by the charismatic Johnny Flynn), is equal parts fascinating and unsettling. Scott’s portrayal dives deep into Ripley’s psyche, revealing a man torn between admiration, jealousy, and a desperate hunger for success.
Steve Zaillian Reinvents a Classic
After two acclaimed film adaptations (Plein Soleil in 1960 and The Talented Mr. Ripley in 1999), reimagining Highsmith’s novel was no small feat. Yet Zaillian, known for his work on Schindler’s List and The Night Of, has managed to breathe new life into the story. His meticulous writing explores the dark corners of human nature, while his direction infuses even the quietest moments with a sense of unease.
Remarkably, Zaillian balances drama with touches of dark humor. One particularly unforgettable scene involves Ripley grappling with an increasingly messy situation involving Dickie, injecting a grim absurdity that keeps viewers riveted.
Audience and Critical Acclaim
Audiences have been effusive in their praise, calling Ripley a “masterpiece” and “a must-watch for fans of classic literature and psychological thrillers.” The series earned an average score of 4.3 from hundreds of reviews, cementing its status as a standout hit.
Beyond its striking visuals and stellar performances, Ripley resonates because it feels timeless. It’s a reminder that even decades after its first publication, Highsmith’s exploration of ambition and identity remains deeply relevant.
Four More Netflix Favorites From 2024
While Ripley has stolen the spotlight, Netflix delivered other gems this year that deserve recognition:
- One Day: This poignant adaptation of David Nicholls’ beloved novel follows Dexter and Emma’s intertwined lives over decades. Its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances earned it a score of 4.3.
- The Gentlemen: A spin-off of Guy Ritchie’s cinematic universe, this action-packed series blends crime, humor, and high-energy chaos, scoring 4.2.
- Dead Boy Detectives: Based on Neil Gaiman’s comics, this gothic mystery featuring two ghostly sleuths charmed viewers with its mix of horror and heart, landing at 4.1.
- My Little Deer: Inspired by Richard Gadd’s personal story, this gripping drama about obsession and boundaries made waves, scoring 4.0.
A Year to Remember for Netflix Fans
From the visually stunning Ripley to the heartfelt and thrilling variety of its other offerings, 2024 has been a year of triumphs for Netflix. Whether you’re a fan of suspenseful dramas, action-packed adventures, or deeply personal stories, there’s no shortage of incredible content to explore. As Ripley proves, sometimes the most timeless stories can feel brand new when brought to life with bold creativity and vision.
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