Here's another chapter in the life of Tom Ripley, the career criminal who has amassed a vast wealth through illicit and sometimes murderous activities.

Ripley's Game is based on the third book in the series of novels by Patricia Highsmith and is set 20 years after The Talented Mr Ripley, filmed in 1999 with Matt Damon in the title role.

John Malkovich is Ripley now, older and wealthier. He is married and living in Italy, when the necessity arises to silence two foes who could reveal his dark past.

During a rare visit to town, Ripley vows revenge when he overhears picture-frame maker Jonathan Trevanny (Dougray Scott) insulting his "lack of taste".

He enlists the help of a Berlin-based associate (Ray Winstone) to ensnare Trevanny and his wife Sarah (Lena Headey) in a twisted game of murder and greed.

Like its prequel (directed by Anthony Minghella), Ripley's Game is gorgeously shot. The director here, Italian Liliana Cavani, uses the traditional film maker's tools of mist, light and shadow to inject yet more mystery into the piece.

Ripley himself is calmer than in the previous film, having at last attained his desired life of privilege and luxury.

But Malkovich allows glimpses of insecurity and even naivety to show through the armour. All together, a highly satisfying hour and three-quarters.

Starring John Malkovich, Dougray Scott, Ray Winstone, Lena Headey

Updated: 09:51 Friday, May 30, 2003