One of the perks of Netflix is the vast library of classics that are readily available for subscribers to watch. These titles span decades and genres, and are often carried by some of the biggest stars around. And whether their availability on Netflix allows someone to watch them for the first or 100th time, those factors commonly result in well-known titles backed by big names surging on the service.
An actor who is no stranger to having movies do well on Netflix is Matt Damon. He kicked off 2026 with one of the streamer’s biggest hits, co-starring alongside Ben Affleck in the crime thriller The Rip. Damon has also seen everything from classics like Good Will Hunting to modern dramas like Ford v. Ferrari top Netflix’s charts. One of his best movies is about to leave the service, though.
The Talented Mr. Ripley Is Leaving Netflix On March 13
In 1999, Damon headlined the psychological thriller The Talented Mr. Ripley. He played Tom Ripley, a young man sent to Italy to convince an American to return home, but not everything is as it seems. It was a huge success, grossing $128.8 million against a $40 million budget, and earned rave reviews, now sitting at 85% on Rotten Tomatoes. The Talented Mr. Ripley was even nominated for five Oscars.
Fast forward to 2026, and the Paramount film is currently streaming on Netflix, but it won’t be for long. The Talented Mr. Ripley will officially leave Netflix on March 13, as confirmed by the streamer. This gives anyone who hasn’t already watched the classic thriller just a few remaining days to check it out.
Anyone looking for Damon’s classic after that may have to settle for Netflix’s Ripley show, which adapted the same story. Otherwise, you could go to MGM+, as The Talented Mr. Ripley will be streaming on there through the end of March, but that will require a completely different subscription.
Why The Talented Mr. Ripley Is Worth Watching
The Talented Mr. Ripley might not be lighting up Netflix’s streaming charts right now, but everyone should rush to watch it before it leaves.
Damon is terrific in the movie, as the role of Tom Ripley is quite complex and layered, allowing him to show his total range as a performer. He has to be confident and warm, but also cold and desperate. It’s quite easy to see why he got a Golden Globe nomination for his work in the movie. He gives one of his greatest performances in one of his best movies.
It helps that Damon is joined by an excellent ensemble, too. Jude Law’s Dickie Greenleaf is magnetically charming and arguably the best performance in the whole thing. It’s no surprise he got an Oscar nomination for his supporting role. Gwyneth Paltrow and Cate Blanchett have memorable turns as love interests, while Philip Seymour Hoffman’s Freddie leaves an impression. Jack Davenport and Philip Baker Hall hold pivotal roles, too.
In addition to the performances, The Talented Mr. Ripley is also a gorgeous film to look at. The European setting brings some immaculate locations. The cast only bolsters the greatness of the movie’s visuals, with Law, Paltrow, and others effortlessly sliding into the 1950s socialite world.
Director Anthony Minghella also allows the full plot to slowly unfold. Tom’s reasons for finding Dickie set up one story, but the connection between them turns the film into something entirely different from what you first suspect. The results are surprising, thrilling, and tragic, making for a very engaging experience as a viewer.
Ultimately, its best to go into The Talented Mr. Ripley knowing as little as possible about the story, allowing maximum impact for what occurs. But rest assured that the tense thriller is bolstered by a star-studded ensemble, wonderful performances, and more.
- Release Date
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December 12, 1999
- Runtime
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139 minutes
- Director
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Anthony Minghella