Hi all!

Today I am back with another horror franchise ranking! I will be discussing the infamous Hannibal series. No, not the modern television show (although, it’s incredible and should be watched immediately). I am taking a look at the movies released between 1991-2007. Each film revolves around the notorious Hannibal Lecter, a cannibalistic man with supreme intelligence and intellect. He is both harmful and helpful at the same time. A spoiler-warning is in full effect. FYI, I am not going to include Manhunter, as it revolves around the same source material as Red Dragon and apparently, isn’t nearly as good. Also, I have not read any of the novels by Thomas Harris. I want to give a big shout-out to Dave Tynan, for allowing me to use his wonderful artwork. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

1.) The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

In first place, we have one of my favourite horror movies of all time: The Silence of the Lambs. Clarice Starling, a top FBI agent, is asked to interview Dr. Hannibal Lecter (a brilliant psychiatrist, with a penchant for cannibalism) to gain insight into the whereabouts of psycho serial killer, Buffalo Bill. Hannibal enjoys taunting Clarice about her own past. However, when given an opportunity, escapes the mental institution. Despite his disgusting way of life and perverted fascination with Clarice, she’s able to use his teachings to pursue the killer. Anthony Hopkins did an exceptional job of creeping out audiences worldwide. Funnily enough, you cannot help but root for him, as he becomes the lesser of two evils, compared to Buffalo Bill. It’s hands down the best movie in the franchise and you cannot change my mind!

2.) Hannibal (2001)

In second place, we have the sequel: Hannibal. It follows disgraced FBI special agent, Clarice Starling, as she attempts to apprehend the cannibalistic serial killer, before his surviving victim, Mason Verger, captures him. Once again, Hannibal is the lesser of two evils, compared to the wealthy child molester, intent on ending his life after being disfigured during their therapy session. Firstly, I love that the majority of the film took place in Florence, Italy. Chief Inspector, Rinaldo Pazzi, is also investigating our villain, after the disappearance of a library curator. The cat and mouse game among the European cobble-stoned streets, was truly captivating. Secondly, the gore is on point. The disemboweling scene at the Palazzo Vecchio is undeniably, great horror cinema. Lastly, the final act will have you biting your nails in suspense. Lecter kidnaps Clarice, forcing her to watch him cook a Justice Department Official for dinner. Every moment will capture your attention. The chemistry between Starling and Lecter is palpable, despite her obvious revulsion and hatred toward him.

3.) Red Dragon (2002) 

In third place, we have the prequel to The Silence of the Lambs, Red Dragon. Ex-FBI agent, Will Graham (Edward Norton), is an expert investigator, who quit the Bureau after almost losing his life trying to capture the elusive Dr. Lecter (Anthony Hopkins). After a series of particularly grisly murders, Graham soon realizes the best way to catch this killer (known as the Tooth Fairy), is to find a way inside the killer’s mind. For our protagonist, that means confronting his past and facing his former nemesis, the now-incarcerated Lecter. As mentioned above, Hannibal is both harmful and helpful. He understands the inner workings of a fellow psychopath, as he is one himself. You have to appreciate the many layers to this film. The Tooth Fairy is one of the most unsettling monsters in the franchise. He truly believes he is the Great Red Dragon – which is tattooed on his back – and that each death, brings him closer to achieving his final form. You won’t forget his epic transformation scene in a hurry.

4.) Hannibal Rising (2007)

In last place, we have Hannibal Rising, a prequel to Red Dragon. It takes place when Lecter (Gaspard Ulliel) is a young man. After witnessing the violent deaths of his parents at the end of World War II, Lecter flees from a Soviet orphanage, to his uncle’s home in Paris. There, he learns his uncle is dead, but the man’s mysterious Japanese widow, Lady Murasaki, welcomes him nonetheless. An aptitude for science helps Hannibal gain acceptance to medical school, where he hones the skills needed, to exact revenge for his sister and the atrocities he witnessed. It’s the backstory we’ve all been waiting for. We cannot help but root for our villain, knowing what he experienced as a child. It also helps that he essentially becomes a Nazi killer. However, we also witness how his struggles, shaped him into a cold-hearted cannibal. The reveal at the end was chilling. I enjoyed this movie but it’s in last place because 1.) no Anthony Hopkins and 2.) it isn’t as epic as the other three. It’s definitely the most visually stunning in the franchise. 

Thank you for reading! How would you rank the films?

Peace & Love xoxo