A major driving factor of 1999's The Talented Mr. Ripley is the duel performance of lead star matt Damon as the titular character along with Jude Law as Dickie Greenleaf as Damon's character feeds off Law's character for much of the story. Because of this, it's no surprise that these two actors had to prepare for the role on a physical and impressionistic level. To prepare for the role of Ripley, Damon lost 30 pounds and learned to play the piano while, for the role of Dickie, Law gained weight and learned to play the saxophone. This also helps to emphasize the contrast in their characters. Ripley is quiet and weaker while Dickie is meant to be loud and somewhat brass. Stay tuned!