Park University Film Psychology Discussion

Before answering this unit’s questions, you should view the film The Talented Mr. Ripley directed by Anthony Minghella.

Keep in mind, as you view the film, a few of the questions posted below.

Directions

Full-bodied video entries—of roughly two minutes with direct answers to the questions will be given full credit.

Questions (Film/Novel)

Choose one question to answer:

1. In the lecture in this unit, it can be noted that this novel/film utilizes familiar archetypes from other stories to help pull us towards supporting Tom Ripley’s quest. What archetypes did you see–and how did they operate? For example, Dickie’s father could be seen as the wise, aged guide helping Ripley on his heroic way. Where there other figures who played familiar roles or did they reverse their positions in new ways?
2. Define why Tom Ripley murders Dickie Greenleaf. Take a stand on a specific root cause and explain how Ripley became a killer. Was the cause sexual? Social? Ambitious? Greedy? Love?
3. The final moments of the film become increasingly tense as Dickie’s friends begin to unravel Ripley’s lies. Did we all secretly want Ripley to succeed, or were we finally turned against him by his final murders?