Hannibal (2 Disc Special Edition) [2001] [DVD]

After being a free man in the outside world for quite some time, Lecter has grown bored and wants excitement. He wants some fresh blood, and more importantly, he wants to see Agent Clarice Starling face-to-face again. Once again playing mind games and manipulating anyone whom comes in contact with him, Dr. Lecter is ready to make some noise once again. And now Lecter's fourth and only surviving victim wants to exact revenge upon Hannibal, for mutilating him and nearly killing him. This all adds up to a shocking and unforgettable tale with twists and turns.

The film looks and sounds incredible. Picture and sound quality is crystal clear and haunting. I think we are able to see and hear a little TOO MUCH at times. Actors in the movie did outstanding jobs in their parts. (You don't even recognize Gary Oldman. Sheesh, is he ugly or what?) Anthony Hopkins is still chilling as the one and only Hannibal. Although there is no Jodie Foster, Julianne Moore does an exceptional job in her place. Ray Liotta should also be mentioned, for he does a great job as well. Ridley Scott did a wonderful job of painting a horrifying and dark picture of an unforgiving tale that will stay in your head no matter how hard you try to forget it.

The film is based upon Thomas Harris' novel. I read it after seeing the movie, and to be honest, I thought it was an all right read. Nothing compared to "The Silence of the Lambs," but still a good read. The film is similar and different to the book. Many will notice the change in ending in the film version. I actually thought the way it ended in the book was a little too strange and out there for me, although it was pretty amusing and surprising. I think like how the movie ends just a little bit better. Don't ask me why, I just do. But if you really do think about it, both endings work.

My biggest problem with "Hannibal" is that it is more of a stylish slasher flick than a dark and clever psychological thriller. I just think Lecter's character is more powerful and frightening when he is a minor character, as with "Silence of the Lambs" and "Red Dragon." It's creepier when the movies or books don't just revolve around his character, because I feel it is his POTENTIAL to do harm is more powerful and frightening than him just simply killing everyone in his way. But I think what made me like this movie more now than before is I try to think of it as it's own movie, and not part of a trilogy. Think of it as a stand-alone film, just as Ridley Scott thinks of it. If you do that, chances are you may enjoy the movie more. Yes, I think it's flawed and there are a few problems with it, but overall it can be a pretty impressive film if you watch it with an open mind.

Now, the DVD is remarkable. I already mentioned how the picture and sound quality is out of this world, including the fact that you can watch the movie in DTS. There are tons and tons of special features, including an extended ending, deleted scenes, feature-length commentary from the director, trailers, behind the scenes features, and many more. Plenty for you to keep your mind occupied with.

So, I think "Hannibal" is a much better film after seeing it a few times and trying to think of it as a stand-alone film. Of course, "The Silence of the Lambs" and the recent film "Red Dragon" are much better films and books, but "Hannibal" is still very good with only a few problems. Just keep in mind that this is a very violent and gory movie. If you're not up to it, I suggest that you skip it. Because where the violence and gore in "The Silence of the Lambs" and "Red Dragon" are mostly just the aftermath of a murder, the violence in this one happens right there on the spot. Be warned, it can be an uneasy film to watch.

Oh, and by the way, anytime you get to hear Dr. Lecter say "Goodie, goodie," or "Okie-dokie," it's well worth the price of admission.