I bury my head in the pillow, and dream of my true love… I am rowing to you on the great, dark ocean.
— Caravaggio
Over the weekend, I binged the new TV mini-series "Ripley," directed and written by the legendary Steven Zaillian. From "Schindler's List" to "The Irishman," Zaillian's mastery in depicting human emotion and conflict ensures that his narratives resonate deeply with audiences, leaving me a lasting impression.
As I pondered Tom Ripley's storyline, memories of the earlier adaptation "The Talented Mr. Ripley“ starring Matt Damon flooded back. Damon's portrayal left a lasting mark, showcasing a character driven by his desires with little regard for the consequences on those around him. His cruelty often appears spontaneous, fueled by emotional upheaval rather than deliberate calculation. The latest adaptation of "Ripley" featuring Andrew Scott sets itself apart by diving deep into Ripley's psyche and actions, offering us a more intimate understanding of the character's motivations and inner chaos.
Ripley's story ascends to fresh heights of depth and authenticity in this new series. I'm faced with a character possessing an extraordinary ability to adapt and learn, seizing every opportunity to improve his life. Despite Ripley's morally ambiguous actions, I can't help but empathise with him, feeling a blend of tension and sympathy as he navigates dangerous situations.
What surprised me the most was the seamless integration of Caravaggio into the entire show. The screenwriter managed to blend Caravaggio's tumultuous life and groundbreaking artistic style into Ripley's narrative, creating a poignant parallel between the two. Both figures challenge societal norms and grapple with existential questions as they seek fulfilment.
Furthermore, "Ripley" doesn't shy away from exploring the darker aspects of human nature. It urges us to confront unsettling realities about manipulation, violence, and the intricacies of morality. However, within the darkness, there are fleeting moments of beauty and redemption, illuminating the complexities of human nature.
The integration of visual elements, such as shot entirely in black-and-white and expert manipulation of light and shadow, pays homage to Caravaggio's artistic style, elevating the series to a visually stunning masterpiece. Each frame is meticulously crafted, captivating me with its aesthetic charm.
Speaking of Caravaggio, my favourite Italian painter, he truly masters the art of using light and shadow to craft powerful biblical-themed masterpieces. Much of Caravaggio's work was deemed blasphemous in its day, reflecting his rebellious spirit, which often found him embroiled in disputes and conflicts. Yet, despite his tumultuous life, he managed to lead a carefree existence despite being displaced.
The irreplaceability of the physical world is evident when witnessing firsthand the original artworks of beloved artists. While clearer electronic copies may be viewed online, standing in an art gallery and experiencing the texture and colours of masterpieces up close creates an unparalleled sensation in the mind.
That's precisely why I travelled to Rome, Florence, Naples, London, Dublin, and New York to witness his paintings in person and ponder the life of this mysterious artist. It serves as a reminder of the deep influence of art and the timeless resilience of creativity, which transcends all boundaries.
Born in Milan in 1571, Caravaggio's early life remains shrouded in mystery. Little is known about his upbringing, but it is believed that his artistic talent began to emerge during his formative years in Milan. His journey as a painter began when he made his way to Rome in his early twenties, seeking to carve out a name for himself in the vibrant artistic scene of the Italian Renaissance.
Caravaggio's approach to painting was truly groundbreaking. Rejecting the idealised forms favoured by his predecessors, he embraced a gritty realism that imbued his subjects with a vitality previously unseen. His command of chiaroscuro, the play of light and shadow, bestowed upon his works an unmatched depth and drama. Whether portraying religious scenes or mundane occurrences, Caravaggio blended his paintings with raw emotion and intensity, captivating viewers and challenging artistic norms.
However, Caravaggio's brilliance was often matched by his turbulent personality. Trouble seemed to follow him wherever he went, with frequent clashes and altercations becoming a part of his life. In 1606, he crossed a threshold that would alter his destiny forever. After a fatal altercation, Caravaggio was compelled to escape Rome, spending the rest of his days as a fugitive. Despite his exile, his creative output remained undiminished, and he persisted in producing masterpieces until his sudden death in 1610.
Though his life was cut short, Caravaggio's impact on the art world was profound and enduring. His innovative techniques and uncompromising vision inspired generations of painters, from the Baroque masters to the luminaries of the modern era. His works continue to captivate audiences around the globe, their emotional resonance and technical brilliance standing as a testament to his long-lasting legacy.
Caravaggio painted Narcissus, a subject from Greek mythology, a figure known for his excessive self-love and eventual demise, likely resonating with Caravaggio's own complex personality and experiences. Additionally, the theme of reflection and self-absorption allowed Caravaggio to experiment with his signature use of chiaroscuro to convey deeper psychological themes.
Interestingly, the writer of "Ripley" decided to title the finale episode "Narcissus." By linking the ending of the show to the Narcissus myth, it emphasises key themes like vanity, self-absorption, and moral ambiguity in Tom Ripley's character. Throughout the series, Ripley's journey is marked by deceit, manipulation, and self-interest, often driven by his narcissistic tendencies. Like the mythical Narcissus who becomes entranced by his own reflection, Ripley may confront the consequences of his actions and the complexity of his character as he grapples with his own image and identity.
Hi Camellia.
The old Narcissus problem, so what is the solution ? I have read many books, this is what I understand.
I believe for a fulfilling life the first step is to love yourself and to recognize that we are unique individuals. And that we can learn new capabilities by stop having a sense of low worth.
It is also healthy for our well being.
Self love is not " admiration of your appearance" like Narcissus. It goes deeper than that by accepting flaws -- we are not perfect, and so best to treat our being with kindness and compassion.
The movie is not for me to waste my creative time on.
I will leave it to the Freudian & Jungian scholars to study problematic individuals psyche.
Good post.