The Talented Mr Ripley continues to stand the test of time with yet another stage adaptation. This latest production by The Faction features stellar acting.
Tom Ripley (Ed McVey) is an average young man until an unexpected opportunity arises that transforms his life. Herbert Greenleaf (Christopher Bianchi) offers Tom an all‑expenses‑paid trip from the United States to Italy to bring home his wayward son Dickie (Bruce Herbelin‑Earle). From the outset, Tom's white lies set the tone for further deception.
In Italy, Tom reacquaints himself with Dickie and meets Marge Sherwood (Maisie Smith), whose relationship with Dickie is left ambiguous. Tom is drawn into Dickie's world of extravagance and privilege. What begins as an innocent job evolves into a dark obsession that leads to murder, identity theft, and a web of lies.
The acting is superb, with strong individual performances. However, the script feels repetitive at times and not as razor‑sharp as billed. The first half is slow and creates a disconnect between Ripley and the audience, though the second half brings welcome tempo and drama.
This UK tour coincides with the 70th anniversary of Patricia Highsmith's iconic novel, later adapted into the Hollywood film starring Matt Damon and Jude Law. Expectations inevitably shape audience response, and while this staging creates a chilling atmosphere, it needs more—more passion, more obsession, more deception.
The set is simple, built around a stage‑within‑a‑stage. Props are wheeled on and off, but little distinguishes the shift from America to Italy. The space feels underused. Lighting remains dim for much of the performance, until a sudden burst of powerful lights reveals Ripley starring in a re‑enactment of his own story. The effect is jarring rather than dramatic.
Any adaptation of The Talented Mr Ripley is sure to draw crowds, and this performance at Richmond Theatre is no different. Despite shortcomings in script and staging, the acting keeps audiences invested in Ripley's descent.
The show runs at Richmond Theatre until 15 November, before continuing its UK tour into 2026.
Review: Sunita Jaswal Photos: Danny Kaan