TY - JOUR
T1 - Coincidence and counterfactuality
T2 - The multiple plot structure of the Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
AU - Murphy, Terence Patrick
AU - Walsh, Kelly S.
N1 - Publisher Copyright:
© 2018 Allegheny College. All rights reserved.
Copyright:
Copyright 2020 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.
PY - 2018/3
Y1 - 2018/3
N2 - In this essay, we explore the multiple plot structure in Anthony Minghella's The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999). In contrast with thematic analysis, our concern is with plot structure, specifically the manner in which the Meredith Logue and Peter Smith-Kingsley plotlines intersect with the main plot of Tom Ripley's attempts to get away with murder. Absent from Patricia Highsmith's novel The Talented Mr. Ripley (1955) and René Clément's cinematic adaptation Plein Soleil (1960), the Meredith plot operates to heighten the significance of coincidence, while engendering new forms of suspense. In contrast, Peter temporarily opens the chance for an alternative future, one in which Tom might realize his social aspirations and a more authentic identity. Ultimately, it is the coincidental resurfacing of the Meredith plot that foils Tom's attempt to escape his past, ensuring his own tragic defeat and a future of dwelling in counterfactuality.
AB - In this essay, we explore the multiple plot structure in Anthony Minghella's The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999). In contrast with thematic analysis, our concern is with plot structure, specifically the manner in which the Meredith Logue and Peter Smith-Kingsley plotlines intersect with the main plot of Tom Ripley's attempts to get away with murder. Absent from Patricia Highsmith's novel The Talented Mr. Ripley (1955) and René Clément's cinematic adaptation Plein Soleil (1960), the Meredith plot operates to heighten the significance of coincidence, while engendering new forms of suspense. In contrast, Peter temporarily opens the chance for an alternative future, one in which Tom might realize his social aspirations and a more authentic identity. Ultimately, it is the coincidental resurfacing of the Meredith plot that foils Tom's attempt to escape his past, ensuring his own tragic defeat and a future of dwelling in counterfactuality.
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U2 - 10.3998/fc.13761232.0042.108
DO - 10.3998/fc.13761232.0042.108
M3 - Article
AN - SCOPUS:85090523884
VL - 42
JO - Film Criticism
JF - Film Criticism
SN - 0163-5069
IS - 1
ER -