The plot of “Red Dragon” revolves around FBI agent Will Graham (played by Edward Norton), who is tasked with capturing a serial killer called “The Tooth Fairy” (played by Ralph Fiennes). This is where Hannibal Lecter (played by Anthony Hopkins) comes in. Graham is forced to seek the help of the incarcerated cannibal, who helped him catch a previous killer.
One of the most fascinating aspects of “Red Dragon” is the relationship between Graham and Lecter. In “The Silence of the Lambs,” Lecter is established as a villain, but in “Red Dragon,” he is more of an antihero. The film explores their dynamic in a way that is both intriguing and unsettling.
Another significant aspect of “Red Dragon” is the character of Francis Dolarhyde, aka “The Tooth Fairy.” Ralph Fiennes delivers a chilling performance as the disfigured man who believes he is becoming a “Red Dragon.” Dolarhyde is a complex character who evokes both sympathy and disgust, and the audience is left wondering what led him to become a killer.
The film’s cinematography and score also contribute to its overall atmosphere. The cinematography by Dante Spinotti creates a train-your-dragon” title=”How to Train Your Dragon”>train-your-super-super-hero” title=”Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero”>dragon” title=”How to Train Your Dragon”>dark and moody tone that perfectly matches the film’s subject matter. The score by Danny Elfman is both haunting and beautiful, adding to the film’s emotional depth.
While “Red Dragon” can be viewed as a standalone film, it has several connections to “The Silence of the Lambs.” The most obvious connection is Hannibal Lecter, who plays a significant role in both films. However, there are also several nods to the earlier film sprinkled throughout “Red Dragon.” For example, in one scene, Lecter is shown wearing a similar mask to the one he wore during his escape in “The Silence of the Lambs.”
Overall, “Red Dragon” is a masterful thriller that manages to stand on its own while also tying into the larger Hannibal Lecter mythology. The performances by the all-star cast (which also includes Harvey Keitel, Emily Watson, and Philip Seymour Hoffman) are excellent, and the film’s direction and writing are top-notch. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, then “Red Dragon” is a must-see.