Hannibal (2001)

Director: Ridley Scott

Cast: Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter, Julianne Moore as Clarice Starling, Gary Oldman as Mason Verger, Ray Liotta as Paul Krendler, Frankie Faison as Nurse Barney (as Frankie R. Faison), Giancarlo Giannini as Insp. Renaldo Pazzi, Francesca Neri as Allegra Pazzi, Zeljko Ivanek as Dr. Cordell Doemling, Hazelle Goodman as Evelda Drumgo, David Andrews as FBI Agent Pearsall, Francis Guinan as FBI Asst. Director Noonan, James Opher as DEA Agent John Eldridge, Enrico Lo Verso as Gnocco, Ivano Marescotti as Carlo, Fabrizio Gifuni as Matteo

I haven`t been affected this much by a movie in years, so that must be
considered good value for money. The controversial gore scene towards the
end made myself, and the majority of the audience, flinch, scream and
nervously giggle simultaneously (a feel good/feel bad movie rolled into
one!).

Having never read the original book I took the film at face value. It is
beautifully filmed by a talented director and crew, and features lovely
Italian location scenes which contrast with the grim plot. The acting is
mainly excellent. Hopkins character appears creepier due to him beginning to
resemble a kindly grandad, who suddenly turns and eats your brain. Julianne
Moore`s excellent Clarice vaguely reminded me of Ripley, the star of Ridley
Scotts masterpiece Alien. At worst, the rest of the cast were well above
average.

The film had me captivated with its style, twisty plot, acting and gore. I
found myself slightly rooting for the baddie Hannibal at some points,
something I haven`t experienced since my empathy for evil Alex in A
Clockwork Orange. If people find the deaths of some characters predictable,
then maybe Scott has directed well in projecting Hannibal`s approach and
morality.

This is the sort of big budget horror film movie-goers have been waiting
for, so go see it on the large screen before its too late! Okay, it is not
the same as Silence, so what? Ten years have passed and things have changed.
I`ve heard the book is better. Well, I may now read it, but in the meantime
I have enjoyed an excellent, thought provoking Film Of The Year!