film: review

> HANNIBAL (2001)
Anthony Hopkins returns as Hannibal "the Cannibal" Lecter, and this time around he is the main dish.

By John C. Lyons
Film Critic

Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Julianne Moore, Gary Oldman, and Ray Liotta

Directed by: Ridley Scott

Written by: Thomas Harris (novel) and David Mamet

Genre: Thriller/Horror

Our Rating: 8.5 out of 10

The long-awaited sequel to The Silence of The Lambs serves up more of the same, with an even harsher tone than its predecessor. Hannibal Lecter comes out of hiding to aid Agent Starling (Moore) after a mishap in which she was involved. However, a victim from his past (Oldman) has other plans for "the Cannibal" and attempts to lure the monster by using Starling.

Julianne Moore takes over for the departing Jodie Foster in the role of FBI Agent Clarice Starling, and I must say she did a great job. I felt that this entry into the trilogy was even more disturbing than Silence, and be prepared for some extremely graphic material. Particularly the Mason Verger character, played by Oldman, gave me the creeps. I get all grossed-out just thinking about the guy while I type this, kudos to the make-up people. The ending is changed a bit from the book, but this one is definitely not lacking in the shock factor. If you enjoyed Silence I would definitely check Hannibal out. It will make you think twice the next time you enjoy meatloaf.

I saw this film at the Tinseltown theaters on upper Peach Street in Erie.

PROs: The acting and therefore the characters are superb! You go into this film expecting some graphic, shocking content, and you will not be disappointed.

CONs: Overall I didn't expect this film to measure up to The Silence of the Lambs, but it came damned close. Almost too much gore and extreme content hurt this one.

(01-0504)

related links:

Hannibal - official site