A Slightly Disturbing thriller
Following on from last night's review of Se7en where I mentioned this film I thought I should do a review of this film. It too is a serial killer versus cop movie. One of the differences here is that the FBI enlist the help of one serial killer to catch another one, interesting concept.
In this thriller the FBI are investigating a serial killer whom has been given the nickname of Buffalo Bill. He kills young women and then removes sections of their the skin, the purpose of which is unknown. As the investigation isn't moving as fast as it should all avenues need to be explored.
Hence, the head of the behavioral science unit at the FBI, Jack Crawford (Scott Glenn) wants FBI trainee Clarice (Jodie Foster) to interview a brilliant psychiatrist whom also ate people (minor character flaw), Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins).
Lecter is serving life behind bars for his efforts to improve society by following is own advice of "Whenever feasible, one should always try to eat the rude.". He has also feasted on other people, sampling different sections or organs from each of his victims.
As it turns out Lecter does indeed know something of Buffalo Bill, but why should he provide any information without getting something in return. Lecter essentially wants two things, first - to be housed in a more comfortable facility, secondly - he wants to speak with Clarice about her past. This might not be the best idea for Clarice as Lecter is a brilliant psychiatrist and manipulator.
As the visits to Lecter continue he manages to learn more about Clarice, forcing her to reveal her innermost traumas, this leads to the question of who actually has the upper hand in their meetings.
The film doesn't rely solely on the gore of the crime scenes. Anthony Hopkins gives a brilliant performance as Lecter and portrays the psychological horrors of Lecter's slow-motion interrogation of Clarice and her past memories brilliantly. All the while she still has to deal with the crimes being performed by Buffalo Bill and the ongoing investigation.
There was a very good reason the film won the big academy awards of best picture, best director, best actor, best actress, and best adapted screenplay. Simply put it is that good!