The Talented Mr. Ripley

Label: Sony Classical
Release Year: 1999
Barcode: 5099705133729
Country of Origin: Europe
Product Type: CD (Pre-owned)
Type: Score and Soundtrack
Composer: Gabriel Yared

"The Talented Mr. Ripley," directed by Anthony Minghella and released in 1999, is a psychological thriller based on Patricia Highsmith's 1955 novel of the same name. The film stars Matt Damon as Tom Ripley, a young man with a knack for impersonation and forgery. Hired by a wealthy shipbuilder to bring back his wayward son, Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law), from Italy, Tom becomes obsessed with Dickie's luxurious lifestyle and begins to covet his identity. As Tom ingratiates himself into Dickie's life, he forms a complex and dangerous relationship with Dickie and his girlfriend, Marge Sherwood (Gwyneth Paltrow). The story explores themes of identity, deception, and morality, set against the backdrop of stunning Italian locations. The film is noted for its intense performances, particularly from Damon and Law, and its tense, unpredictable narrative.

The soundtrack of "The Talented Mr. Ripley" is a blend of 1950s jazz and classical music, reflecting the period and setting of the film. The score, composed by Gabriel Yared, complements the film's mood with elegant and suspenseful arrangements. Notable tracks include "Lullaby for Cain," sung by Sinead O'Connor, which captures the haunting and melancholic tone of the film. The soundtrack also features jazz standards performed by actors in the film, including "My Funny Valentine" and "Tu Vuo' Fa' L'Americano," showcasing Dickie's love for jazz music. The music plays a crucial role in establishing the film's atmosphere, evoking a sense of sophistication, intrigue, and underlying menace, mirroring the complexities of the characters and their shifting identities.

Track Listing

Tu Vuo' Fa L'Americano
Matt Damon

My Funny Valentine
Matt Damon

Italia
Gabriel Yared

Lullaby for Cain
Sinéad O'Connor

Crazy Tom
Gabriel Yared

Ko-Ko
Charlie Parker

Nature Boy
Miles Davis

Mischief
Gabriel Yared

Ripley
Gabriel Yared

Pent-Up House
Robin Aspland

Guaglione
Marino Marini

Moanin'
The Guy Barker International Quintet

Proust
Gabriel Yared

Four
Robin Aspland

Promise
Gabriel Yared

The Champ
Dizzy Gillespie

Syncopes
Gabriel Yared

Stabat Mater (excerpt)
The London Metropolitan Ensemble

You Don't Know What Love Is
John Martyn With The Guy Barker International Quintet feat. Chris Botti

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