Jenelle Riley Deputy Awards and Features Editor Casting director Avy Kaufman admits even she was skeptical when Steven Zaillian asked her to come on board to cast “Ripley,” the Netflix limited series based on Patricia Highsmith’s classic novel “The Talented Mr.

Ripley.” The story had already been adapted to screen, most notably in Anthony Minghella’s Oscar-nominated 1999 film.“At first, I was wondering why Steve was doing this,” Kaufman says bluntly. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with him on many other projects, so I know how talented he is, but to reboot is really risky.” But the final product, which boasts 13 Emmy nominations, including a nod for casting, quelled any doubts. “It’s like a piece of art,” Kaufman raves. “I was really impressed.

It tells so many different stories and gets inside the characters. I just think it’s a masterpiece.”Kaufman first worked with Zaillian on his feature directorial debut, 1993’s “Searching for Bobby Fischer” and has gone on to collaborate with the filmmaker on all his directing gigs since, including “The Night Of” and “A Civil Action.” She’s won three Emmy Awards, two for “Succession” and one for “Damages.” And she has teamed with the best of the best, from Ang Lee to Steven Spielberg, over the course of her impressive career.

Asked what she hopes for most from a director, and she has one word: “Collaboration.” Kaufman actually cast the limited series prior to the pandemic and admits it was an arduous process. “He wants to see a lot of people,” she says. “Which I respect, but it does take some time.” Andrew Scott was already attached to play the titular title character, and it was Kaufman who suggested Dakota Fanning to costar as Marge Sherwood, the female lead and a major.

‘Ripley’ Casting Director Avy Kaufman on Collaborations with Steven Spielberg, Ang Lee and Fighting for Evan Peters

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