The Talented Mr Ripley is a classic psychological thriller, based on the 1955 book by Patricia Highsmith and more recently adapted into a film starring Matt Damon, Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow (1999) and, in 2014, the more economically named Ripley, starring Andrew Scott. Mr Ripley has had his fair share of screen time, and now takes to the stage - where his manipulative and often shocking antics still have the power to keep audiences spellbound.

From the title alone, you’d be forgiven that the story could be a lighthearted comedy of manners, but Ripley’s ‘talents’ place him firmly outside the boundaries of respectable society. The plot takes elaborate twists and turns, and as the production descends into a ‘cat and mouse’ chase, it’s easy to find yourself on the edge of your seat.

The story is brought to life by strong performances from the cast, led by Ed McVey who, after appearing as Prince William on screen in The Crown, has taken the leap into the lead role of Tom Ripley - a down-on-his-luck chancer who narrates the story, projecting fear, contempt and envy on the 'ordinary' people who surround him. 

The story is framed from Ripley’s (jaded, and possibly unreliable) perspective, which is translated onto the stage through his erratic but energetic narration, and the surreal presence of the ensemble company, who lurk in the darkness around him. McVey has a mammoth and technically challenging task on his hands, which he takes in his stride.

An unexpected encounter offers Ripley the chance to escape his miserable life in New York, when Herbert Greenleaf (Christopher Bianchi) recognises him as an acquaintance of his estranged son Dickie (Bruce Herbelin-Earle). The wealthy Greenleaf entreats Ripley to travel to Italy on his dime, and persuade Dickie to come home. On discovering that Dickie is living an isolated, decadent life on the Italian Riviera with fellow American Marge Sherwood (Maisie Smith), Ripley soon becomes fascinated by Dickie’s easy lifestyle and attractive personality...

The production's comprehensive costume design is very effective - from Dickie and Marge’s high society elegance, to Mr Greenleaf’s old-fashioned but expensive suit, and the stifling corduroy jacket which Ripley comes to associate with the life he wants to cast off. In contrast, the set (both set and costume were designed by Holly Pigott) is pared back and minimalist. Coupled with Sarita Piotrowski’s eerie movement direction, this makes the ensemble cast seem strangely two-dimensional.

There is a reason that Mr Ripley has fascinated audiences for 70 years, and the tour draws to a close soon, so don’t hesitate - whether you have devoured the story on the page or on screen, or are entirely new to Tom Ripley’s escapades, this production is a distinctive, exhilarating adaptation of a remarkable psychological thriller. 

Four Stars

The Talented Mr Ripley was reviewed by Jessica Clixby on Monday 20 April at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, where it shows until Saturday 25 April.