When my aunt, who is also a huge film fan, told me Anthony Hopkins won Best Actor despite appearing on screen for only 15 minutes, I asked her why he won Best Actor instead of Supporting Actor. She said, "because his performance is so great, so captivating, that even when he is NOT on screen, you could still feel his presence and influence throughout the film as if he was the leading actor. And I have to agree.
no way, I rewatched this movie recently and it feels like he occupy most screen time, wow just wow maybe because you just remember all of his screen time so it feels like you had something left out.
I'm glad you also singled out Ted Levine's performance. He's talked about how he had to study certain real life serial killers in order to play the part as Buffalo Bill and how that left a lasting imprint on him after filming.
He and Andrew Robinson (from Dirty Harry) were cursed for their great performances. Couldn't get good roles because they were so tied to those villains. Fortunately, Deep Space 9 and Monk happened.
He was great, but I actually thought Ralph Fiennes in Red Dragon was a better villain. He had a creepy charm to him while Levine was so over-the-top that I don't find him especially scary.
@@coolnerdlll6053 Well, Buffalo Bill aka Jame Gumb was a composite of real serial killers and their character traits and signature methods. He abducts his victim like Ted Bundy did, he wears human skin as Ed Gein did, he keeps his victim in a pit in his cellar like Gary Heidnik did and so on. The performance may be over-the-top, but his actions are based on offenders in FBI case files. Lecter is also partly a composite of real people.
The emotional depth Hopkins and Foster bring to this film is astonishing. The incredulous anger when Lecter states: "Jack Crawford sent a trainee to me?" is seen though his facial muscles barely move. It's all in the eyes. Such a tragedy that Foster refused the part of Clarice Starling in Hannibal.
@ericspearman2998 I believe you're right that she didn't like the script, as a matter of fact I think Jonathan was supposed to come back to direct Hannibal and he didn't like the script either
Hannibal is entertaining in its way, but really, it’s not a very good movie, and Foster probably knew that after reading the script. The book is nowhere near as good as “Silence” and it just felt like MGM just figured if they threw enough money at it, the story would be on par with its predecessor.
I have to tell my Silence of the Lambs story - I was in college when it came out and went to see it with a casual friend from class. By the end of the film, we were so scared we were holding hands and practically sitting on top of each other. I didn't want to go back and sleep in my dorm room alone and asked if i could go spend the night at her home nearby instead. We were best friends after that night, and she was a bridesmaid at my wedding. 😁
Jodie Foster's subtle expressive eyes entransed me when watching Silence of the Lambs for the first time. She demonstrates such on-screen vunrability and subtext that should be studied in acting classes for decades.
YES. When she turns around in Crawford's office and sees the wall of victim photos...we know what she's seeing is horrific before the camera even pans because it's all in her eyes.
I was shocked that this movie was made for $19,000,000 ($44,000,000 today). It demonstrates how the value of good directing can stretch farther than any cent.
I did a paper on Clarice Starling in my master's program for a career class. Not only is it one of the best horror/thrillers of all time, but it's a great depiction of how gender can effect one's experience in their career. It's done very carefully and sensitively here in a genre that is continuously lambasted for being mysogynistic (which, as much of a fan as I am, it can be). This movie is everything people claim horror isn't...nuanced and layered, and executed extremely well in every regard.
In a world of few perfect films, this is one of them. Jonathan Demme's direction, all the performances, the writing, cinematography, musical score, etc. A flawless masterpiece.
One of the greatest movies of all time, and the best performances from Anthony Hopkins (as Hannibal Lector) and Jodie Foster (as Clarice Starling) that I have ever seen. Phenomenal film.
Awesome review. It’s wild that this movie could be so old and you give such an awesome review. The movie and book were both incredible. You would think that everyone has seen Silence of the lambs by now. Thank you for a great review
It's often considered a horror film, which honestly screwed over the sequels. Silence of the Lambs is, like you say, a grounded police procedural with thriller elements. But because Hannibal became SO iconic as a "Horror" villain, anything that followed really amped up the generic horror elements and didn't really fit in. Hannibal was this weird art-house horror film that was too goofy to really take seriously. The remake of Red Dragon with Hopkins and Ed Norton was the closest we got to Silence's style but it FELT like it was aping the style more than using it, and even then it amped up the dark cinematography and music, so the whole thing felt like a cheap copy with more star power despite it closely following the book. The show - I haven't seen all of it - is a different thing entirely but I think gets a bit more darkly fantastical and psychological, stylistally being (purposefully) divorced from Silence.
One of the best movies ever made. Buffalo Bills house seems so real and horribly creepy. Awesome a horror movie won some Oscars. Btw when does your movie come out? Willl definitely check it out
So excited you reviewed my favorite movie of all time. It got me into Gil studies in college. I love the scene where Clarice and Lecter last meet. She’s pacing around the bars like a trapped animal in a zoo. But Lecter barely moves. The reveal she gives him is like an unsatisfying climax for her. But he gets exactly what he wants and closes down. Thank you for the video
My favorite movie of all time and I'm glad you got around to reviewing it, Chris! You mention gender roles in the film and how Clarice feels alone being a woman in law enforcement. Another parallel to this in the film is Buffalo Bill and how he's a man in a 'woman's world' since he's a tailor. You can see how both of them deal with being out of place, and how they use these emotions for better or worse. Buffalo Bill feels emasculated and mistakes his emotions to want to become something he's not. This, combined with his childhood trauma, resorts to him killing women to feel a sense of power and control. Clarice, on the other hand, perseveres despite the fact that she's at a disadvantage, and she uses her childhood trauma as a motivation to improve the world around her. I love how the movie plays off this duality by representing Buffalo Bill as a moth and Clarice as a butterfly. Buffalo Bill's connection to moths is obvious but for Starling, we see butterflies around the wallpaper in Frederica Bimmel's house which she investigates, and we also see a butterfly decoration fluttering after Clarice's triumph in the basement shootout scene. This duality makes complete sense since both Buffalo Bill and Clarice come from similar circumstances (childhood trauma) and transform into dedicated, resilient individuals. Buffalo Bill uses his transformation for evil, hence why he is a moth, and Clarice uses hers for good, hence why she is a butterfly.
Easily one of my favorite films. No movie scene has ever made me feel as terrified as the night vision scene; it triggers some primal fear in me that I can't control
This is a perfect film. Also, let's not forget to mention Scott Glenn as Crawford, Anthony Heald as Chilton and Brooke Smith as Catherine. All of their performances are brilliant as well.
saw this for the first time when I was very young and was weirded out even though I didn't really understand what was going on, or what the title even meant...watched it again years later as an adult and immediately understood why everyone thought it was so brilliant; applaud the POV directing style of Jonathan Demme
The film is a masterclass in putting a book on screen, but the thing is that Thomas Harris’ book is a masterpiece that is incredibly cinematic. The whole bait and switch of Lecter’ escape and the FBI being at the wrong house and you finding out when Buffalo Bill opens the door for Clarice is right from the novel, beat by beat. I remember reading it before the film came out and being shocked at both scenes. A chapter ends with the FBI knocking at the door and the next chapter has Buffalo Bill opening the door and it’s Clarice, my God I freaked out reading that😂. Hell, even the moth fluttering and she realizing what she’s gotten herself into, it’s all from the book. One of the few times the movie and book are equally masterpieces.
My favorite performance by an actress of all time. Clarice showed intelligence, wit, confusion, and fear - all which were performed by Jodie Foster perfectly.
Perfect film adaption of the Thomas Harris novel, while cutting and adjusting scenes just rightly enough for a fitting runtime. The editing between Clarice and the sting squad going to the two different possible addresses, only to reveal Clarice found the right one was astounding and well illustrates to book's surprise too! Every casting and portrayal was above and beyond honorable to the source material. I only wish they kept Buffalo Bill's final words to Starling from the book, as he lays dying, "how does it feel..to be..so beautiful?..." cementing the killer's tragic humanity and his unattainable desire to be "transformed," while a moth circles above in his green night-vision sight, descending closer and closer to envelop its large wings over, and putting to rest Buffalo Bill.
I saw a double feature of this movie and Aliens at the Paramount Theater in Austin Texas. It was to represent strong female roles in movies. It was such a killer combination. I've never seen either movies in theaters before, and both blew me away. 2 supremely iconic films.
One of the best films ever made. Ted Levine is so underrated in the movie though, everyone praised Foster and Hopkins but forgot about Levine. He was incredible, and he didnt even get an invitation to the Oscars that year!
In my opinion, Anthony Hopkins gave the greatest performance I have ever seen in a motion picture. This is one of my favorite films of all time and I'm extremely glad Chris finally gives his thoughts on this.
I've not read a lot of books but due to prison time for a few months (first and last time, over 30 years ago for a silly crime ) I read 'Silence of the Lambs' and all I'll state is WOW, the movie did a great job
My all time favourite film that delivers in my opinion a top tier rank of best performances and detail through the vision and cinematography. A masterpiece in every aspect. The soundtrack is also a must buy as well. Made me a fan of Anthony and Jodie through their separate careers. Absolutely a big moment in film history for seeing one of the greatest film experiences with its art and power.
There's actually something quite subtle going on with the cinematography that makes Lecter different to all the other men in the film. When we are in the perspective of every other man, looking at Clarisse, we are looking down on her. But from Lecters perspective, we are always looking straight on. This gives the subconscious hint to the audience that unlike every other man in her life, Hannibal Lecter, of all people, actually respects her.
I absolutely am in love with this observation! Having seen it at least 30 times since I saw it in the theater in 1991, I feel stupid never picking up on this. Thank you so much.
A master piece , no less. A movie for the ages. I will never forget the feelings I got the first time I saw it in Bilbao, in 1991. I knew right away I was watching something extraordinary. I was in my early twenties then and I already loved movies. Silence of the Lambs has remained my number 1 favorite of all time. Thank you very much to everyone involved in the making of this movie.
Anthony Hopkins only had 24 minutes of screentime, yet he deservedly scooped up the Oscar for his unnerving portrayal of Hannibal Lecter. He probably should have been nominated for Supporting Actor, though.
Timeless classic! thank you Chris. I just want to point out one thing: The Silence of the Lambs is one of a kind, but it's also very well-praised. 'Red Dragon', on the other hand, is VERY underated - sometimes I think it's even on the same level of Demme's masterpiece. It's an awesome film and i hope you'll get the chance to give it it's flowers in a review. Oh, and there's Ridley Scott's 'Hanibal', which you can probably skip on lol
Completely agree - I can only imagine how audiences reacted to that moment back in 1991. The escape set piece is a masterclass in filmmaking: acting, pacing, framing...Silence is one of the "perfect" movies.
This has always been my favorite movie of all time. Criminal Psychology has always piqued my interest and this movie is always so fascinating for not only Criminal Psychology but also great film making.
Fantastic review! I liked your highlighting of the shots from Starling's POV, and the way male characters look at her. I also think Scott Glenn get overlooked as yet another male character who subtly manipulates her but also mentors her, just like Hopkins. Just for the record Hopkins has about 42mins. of screen time(yes I'm the kind of movie nerd who times things out like that, lol). I had heard it was 20 mins. years ago and knew that couldn't be true, and I was right. Sorry I just had to point this out.
Easily in my top ten films ever. I met Ted Tally a few years ago and he said writing the screenplay was challenging as he had just become a father for the first time so having the joy of a new born in the house and the darkness of the Silence Of The Lambs to write played havoc with him.
One aspect of the film most people overlook is Demme's direction to the actors. In most cases, the characters are speaking directly into the camera. This unconsciously heightens the involvement of the viewer.
The final shot of Hannibal walking behind doctor Chilton to his certain doom, is a scene that I watch to its completion through the end credits wishing it would never end. That's how you end a movie
One of the best Horror/Thriller Films ever made. Jodie And Anthony earned their Oscars and Ted deserved A Oscar nomination as well. This And Hannibal Show are on another level.
Thank you so much Chris for your perspective and insight. I have enjoyed your content for several years and I so respect your opinion, as it is very rare to find anyone who approaches film critique the way you do. Naturally I got super excited when I saw you'd chosen to do one of these retrospective reviews of Silence of the Lambs. This is one of the ones that I agree most with you on. This movie is flawless and should be on the curriculum of everyone wanting to make phycological thrillers... or even just very well made movies.
Oh man, this movie is sooo GOOD! Everything about is perfect. The editing and cinematography is excellent, the acting (for all mains) is almost nothing like you’ve seen them do.
I recently watched this, and I'm not normally someone that pays attention to how well directed, cut, and assembled the movie was. But, as I was watching it, I really noticed how clever so many choices in the movie were. The movie is brilliantly done, and it's too bad we don't have more psychological thrillers like this.
This is by far one of my favorite films of all time. I still can't believe Chris Stuckman never reviewed this, lol. But literally jaw dropping performance by everyone in it. If you haven't experienced this true psychological masterpiece, this iconic testament to film you are missing out. Please I implore you all to be sucked into Jonathan Demme (director) take on this adaptation ❤
Watched in 2024.& must say its masterpiece mindblowing psycho thriller movie. What an Amazing act by Anthony as Dr. Lectar. No movies till today come closure to this.
Chris you have no idea how many times I requested you for reviewing this movie. I saw dvd or blue ray on your background several times. I wanted you to talk about it. And finally it is here. I think it is most anticipated movie review. Thank you.
Excellent review - you think ... the person that should be questioning Lecter should be a 6' 4" agent not Starling, but that's exactly the point.. it has to be Starling - that's why she was chosen. "I'm having an old friend for dinner" - one of the best lines in movie history - lol
Hey Chris, I loved your review of this! Also I’ve been wondering, have you ever considered reviewing the Cartoon Network miniseries Over the Garden Wall for your Halloween special? It’s my all time favorite cartoon and a great introduction for younger audiences into the horror genre. Would love to see you review it some day!
I just rewatched this over the weekend and thought I can't believe Chris has never covered this. And look what I got today!! I jumped for joy when this notification came through
I saw this movie when it first came out. It was great to experience it in a theater on opening weekend. I've never been as tense as I was near the end of this movie. I was disturbed, stressed and a little exhausted when I was leaving the theatre.
Perfect film. Easily in top ten films of all time. So many films (Seven / Saw etc) and TV shows (CSI etc) would not exist at all or be very different without this all-time classic. Another film in the series, Manhunter (1986) is also essential viewing after/before this one.
Hopkins in undeniably great, but does anyone else think Mads Mikkelson's portrayal of Hannibal Lector in the TV series is the best portrayal of the character? He's just so, so good.
Without Anthony Hopkin this would have been a great movie, but Anthony Hopkin made it into a Cinema Classic for centuries to come. It is funny because everyone knows about Hannibal Lecter, even those that haven't seen the film, to the point that many think that the iconic line of put the lotion in the basket was said by Anthony Hopkin. It was a master class in acting.
I saw this film recently in March having not seen it for years and it was a pleasure to remind myself why this is such a great film. Interestingly in the opening scene, Clarice turns back at the assault course when her best option would just be to complete as it is a shorter journey I do have to say though it would have been better to post your review of this on Valentine's Day rather than the day before Halloween as that was when it went Nationwide in the US in 1991 just days after Dances With Wolves (its predecessor for Best Picture) was nominated for 12 Oscars
What you point out its really important: the fact that the camera shows ous Clarice's point of view and how men treat her differentely. Great direction.
One of my favourite movies of all time! I rewatch it every few years and every time I find something new to appreciate about it. It's about time for a rewatch, so thanks for the reminder!
My sister got to meet Anthony Hopkins in Richmond Virginia. She was a waitress at a local bar/restaurant. She was so shocked to see him. This was right before he filmed Hannibal. She said he was super sweet and so small. Crazy right? Well Anthony Hopkins apparently goes to hole in the wall restaurants/ bars wherever he goes and leaves a book that he has read. He left a book at his table. My sister saw the book and ran after him as he left. He told her the book is yours. When I read a great book and I finish it I always leave it behind for someone else to find. He doesn’t sign it or anything like that. I just thought the world and you Chris 😉 should know how amazing he is. What a cool experience my sister had. I’m so glad I can share it. I wish I was there to experience it.
So glad you gave props to Ted Levine. He was absolutely shafted of an oscar nomination. He’s the Harvey Dent of this movie, and by that I mean, he delivers a phenomenal villain performance, but understandably gets overshadowed by the incredible work Hopkins did, similar to Aaron Eckhart in The Dark Knight, because Heath was just mindblowingly good. Buffalo Bill is fucking terrifying in the movie, but a really fascinating character.
Can I admit something? I didn't love this film when I watched it for the only time I have so far. That's because I had read the book originally and absolutely loved that, so I was disappointed when they left a bunch of details out. One such moment was the realization that Lecter's "William Rubin" was just a play on bilirubin, a compound found in poop that also has an element in it that was either called or connected to Chilton, the head of the Baltimore State Hospital he was kept in. Since then, I have come to accept that book-to-film adaptations will have to make changes, so maybe I'll end up loving the film as well the next time I see it. The ending was one change that I really liked, where Lecter calls Starling instead of just writing her a letter. It gives us one last moment of the incredible performances from the two leads. And that "I'm having an old friend for dinner" line is one of the best in fiction history. Lecter is one of my favorite characters, though I don't admit it freely since it can make people look at me in a weird way.
Anthony Hopkins portrayal of Lecter created an archetype, a lot like Darth Vader did when he was introduced in Star Wars. Everyone knows who Hannibal is, through sort of cultural osmosis. I love this movie, and if you haven't seen the TV show from a few years ago with Mads Mikkelsen you really should check it out.
Ted Levine is one of the nicest celebrities I have ever met. I saw him at supermarket checkout and felt bad for staring at him then he looked back and said "yeah, it's me." with a chuckle
Fantastic movie and one of my favorites. I finally saw it when I was in high school but I remember going to a local video store and being 6-8 years old at the time, it was the only movie that my mother would forbid me to rent despite my watching a lot of horror growing up (Critters 2 and Pumpkinhead being two that stood out). I distinctly remember just being captivated by the VHS cover at the time as a kid though.
I actually really love Anthony Heald. Met him at Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland while he was performing at a Starbucks. Told him how much I loved him in this movie. Was a great moment in my life.
Man I just finished watching the last Paco Plaza film, "Hermana Muerta" it's on Netflix and I founded an amazing movie🍿 knowing that you enjoyed one of his films (REC) I think you will love his last work. I strongly recommend it. Thank you for everything Chris!❤
Clarice isn't a loner. She has a fellow female cadet who hangs out with her. They train together. They do research together. And she graduates at the end as well, all of which I loved. Clarice is not a lone wolf. She seeks help and community, which is part of why she's so good at her job. It's subtle and in the background, but I loved it. Female support and solidarity.
It seems like some actors are just meant for certain roles. They're so good that you can't imagine anyone else playing that character. For me, one of them is Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter. His refined yet sinister presence makes him captivating on screen. Jodie Foster is also amazing and deserves praise for the success of the movie. She played the naive but ambitious intern agent exceptionally well. She's not on the same level as Lecter, and they both know it, but she can use her inner feelings to her advantage. Lecter admires her ambition and drive. When it comes to Foster, I also automatically think of her role in the film as Clarice Starling. Buffalo Bill had enough screen time to make him interesting for the audience, but not too much to carry the movie alone, and that's what makes "The Silence of the Lambs" great. He's just a side dish, while Lecter is the main course. The final scene is stunning. Nothing more than a phone call, a hint of what's to come, and this continuous scene fades away as the credits roll. It leaves you craving much more. Definitely a movie that everyone should see. Yes, there are some disturbing scenes, but they're not unnecessary and honestly make the movie more realistic. It's a brilliantly smart thriller, not just seeking cheap thrills or scares.
When my aunt, who is also a huge film fan, told me Anthony Hopkins won Best Actor despite appearing on screen for only 15 minutes, I asked her why he won Best Actor instead of Supporting Actor. She said, "because his performance is so great, so captivating, that even when he is NOT on screen, you could still feel his presence and influence throughout the film as if he was the leading actor. And I have to agree.
Well, he may have a more supporting role to Jody Foster, but he's really the main male actor in the movie, so the nomination probably makes sense.
Still shocks me to this day that Anthony Hopkins only had 16 minutes of screen time in this film! Absolutely Brilliant Performance!
Yeah - they judged it perfectly - had such an outsized impact compared with the screen time. Definitely a case of less is more!
Me too, you'd be forgiven by thinking that Lecter was the main antagonist, when he only appears briefly.
Hopkins is also the Only Openly Autistic actor to win a Best Actor Oscar.
no way, I rewatched this movie recently and it feels like he occupy most screen time, wow just wow
maybe because you just remember all of his screen time so it feels like you had something left out.
His presence is enough in those 16 minutes to stay with you
I haven’t seen this movie in forever, it’s seriously due a rewatch
Chippy?!?!
I've seen it hundreds of times but it never gets old.
Pay me $5M to watch it again? Nope
It puts the movie on again or else it gets the hose again 📼 🧺 🐩 🦋
@MichaelLeger-pq7fb are you afraid of The Silence of the Lambs ?
I'm glad you also singled out Ted Levine's performance. He's talked about how he had to study certain real life serial killers in order to play the part as Buffalo Bill and how that left a lasting imprint on him after filming.
He and Andrew Robinson (from Dirty Harry) were cursed for their great performances. Couldn't get good roles because they were so tied to those villains. Fortunately, Deep Space 9 and Monk happened.
He was great, but I actually thought Ralph Fiennes in Red Dragon was a better villain. He had a creepy charm to him while Levine was so over-the-top that I don't find him especially scary.
@@coolnerdlll6053 Well, Buffalo Bill aka Jame Gumb was a composite of real serial killers and their character traits and signature methods. He abducts his victim like Ted Bundy did, he wears human skin as Ed Gein did, he keeps his victim in a pit in his cellar like Gary Heidnik did and so on. The performance may be over-the-top, but his actions are based on offenders in FBI case files. Lecter is also partly a composite of real people.
@@coolnerdlll6053Francis’ tragic backstory and his complicated feelings for Reba made me feel for the guy.
The scene where he's moving the sofa. How he plays the wounded/disheartened sadsack as a manipulation is... (chef's kiss)
One of THE greatest films ever and some of THE greatest acting performances ever.
Such a strong and classic film. The scene Hannibal talks to Starling about her “quite possible”childhood and roots is so creepy and magnetic.
Many other thrillers/crime movies (some of them are even older and also quite psychological) are way far better.
The emotional depth Hopkins and Foster bring to this film is astonishing. The incredulous anger when Lecter states: "Jack Crawford sent a trainee to me?" is seen though his facial muscles barely move. It's all in the eyes. Such a tragedy that Foster refused the part of Clarice Starling in Hannibal.
Right? I was disappointed that it wasn't her.
While I love Julianne Moore, it was not the same and it didn't do nearly as well without Foster. I think she was filming Panic Room.
@@manicpanic3544I thought she had read the script and hated it.
@ericspearman2998 I believe you're right that she didn't like the script, as a matter of fact I think Jonathan was supposed to come back to direct Hannibal and he didn't like the script either
Hannibal is entertaining in its way, but really, it’s not a very good movie, and Foster probably knew that after reading the script. The book is nowhere near as good as “Silence” and it just felt like MGM just figured if they threw enough money at it, the story would be on par with its predecessor.
I have to tell my Silence of the Lambs story - I was in college when it came out and went to see it with a casual friend from class. By the end of the film, we were so scared we were holding hands and practically sitting on top of each other. I didn't want to go back and sleep in my dorm room alone and asked if i could go spend the night at her home nearby instead. We were best friends after that night, and she was a bridesmaid at my wedding. 😁
Bridesmaid of the Lambs
@@thedoneeye I just laughed so loudly I woke up the dog. 🤣
Well this took a..
Wholesome turn 😳🫣
@@danvillebelle6977it wasn’t even funny …
Envy you for being able to watch it on theaters
Jodie Foster's subtle expressive eyes entransed me when watching Silence of the Lambs for the first time. She demonstrates such on-screen vunrability and subtext that should be studied in acting classes for decades.
YES. When she turns around in Crawford's office and sees the wall of victim photos...we know what she's seeing is horrific before the camera even pans because it's all in her eyes.
One of the best movies of all time, you should do more Jodie Foster movies Chris
I was shocked that this movie was made for $19,000,000 ($44,000,000 today). It demonstrates how the value of good directing can stretch farther than any cent.
Good directing AND good writing can really carry a film.
Just your average movie in the 80's and 90's. Once in a while, studios would go all in on $50M+ budgets.
I watched this in a cinema when it first came out. The shot where Hopkin's eyes fill up the whole screen was overwhelming.
Yeah, i recently have the opportunity to whatch this in cinema and you must experience this in a theater is amazing
I did a paper on Clarice Starling in my master's program for a career class. Not only is it one of the best horror/thrillers of all time, but it's a great depiction of how gender can effect one's experience in their career. It's done very carefully and sensitively here in a genre that is continuously lambasted for being mysogynistic (which, as much of a fan as I am, it can be). This movie is everything people claim horror isn't...nuanced and layered, and executed extremely well in every regard.
In a world of few perfect films, this is one of them. Jonathan Demme's direction, all the performances, the writing, cinematography, musical score, etc. A flawless masterpiece.
One of the greatest movies of all time, and the best performances from Anthony Hopkins (as Hannibal Lector) and Jodie Foster (as Clarice Starling) that I have ever seen. Phenomenal film.
For anyone who hasn’t read the book, it’s also a masterpiece. Red Dragon and Silence of the Lambs are some of the best thrillers ever written.
Awesome review. It’s wild that this movie could be so old and you give such an awesome review. The movie and book were both incredible. You would think that everyone has seen Silence of the lambs by now. Thank you for a great review
I never saw this as a horror film but a very tense procedure drama. That scene where Clarice is telling him about the lambs nearly had me in tears.
It's often considered a horror film, which honestly screwed over the sequels. Silence of the Lambs is, like you say, a grounded police procedural with thriller elements. But because Hannibal became SO iconic as a "Horror" villain, anything that followed really amped up the generic horror elements and didn't really fit in. Hannibal was this weird art-house horror film that was too goofy to really take seriously. The remake of Red Dragon with Hopkins and Ed Norton was the closest we got to Silence's style but it FELT like it was aping the style more than using it, and even then it amped up the dark cinematography and music, so the whole thing felt like a cheap copy with more star power despite it closely following the book. The show - I haven't seen all of it - is a different thing entirely but I think gets a bit more darkly fantastical and psychological, stylistally being (purposefully) divorced from Silence.
One of the best movies ever made. Buffalo Bills house seems so real and horribly creepy. Awesome a horror movie won some Oscars. Btw when does your movie come out? Willl definitely check it out
So excited you reviewed my favorite movie of all time. It got me into Gil studies in college. I love the scene where Clarice and Lecter last meet. She’s pacing around the bars like a trapped animal in a zoo. But Lecter barely moves. The reveal she gives him is like an unsatisfying climax for her. But he gets exactly what he wants and closes down. Thank you for the video
My favorite movie of all time and I'm glad you got around to reviewing it, Chris! You mention gender roles in the film and how Clarice feels alone being a woman in law enforcement. Another parallel to this in the film is Buffalo Bill and how he's a man in a 'woman's world' since he's a tailor. You can see how both of them deal with being out of place, and how they use these emotions for better or worse. Buffalo Bill feels emasculated and mistakes his emotions to want to become something he's not. This, combined with his childhood trauma, resorts to him killing women to feel a sense of power and control. Clarice, on the other hand, perseveres despite the fact that she's at a disadvantage, and she uses her childhood trauma as a motivation to improve the world around her. I love how the movie plays off this duality by representing Buffalo Bill as a moth and Clarice as a butterfly. Buffalo Bill's connection to moths is obvious but for Starling, we see butterflies around the wallpaper in Frederica Bimmel's house which she investigates, and we also see a butterfly decoration fluttering after Clarice's triumph in the basement shootout scene. This duality makes complete sense since both Buffalo Bill and Clarice come from similar circumstances (childhood trauma) and transform into dedicated, resilient individuals. Buffalo Bill uses his transformation for evil, hence why he is a moth, and Clarice uses hers for good, hence why she is a butterfly.
Easily one of my favorite films. No movie scene has ever made me feel as terrified as the night vision scene; it triggers some primal fear in me that I can't control
This is a perfect film.
Also, let's not forget to mention Scott Glenn as Crawford, Anthony Heald as Chilton and Brooke Smith as Catherine. All of their performances are brilliant as well.
saw this for the first time when I was very young and was weirded out even though I didn't really understand what was going on, or what the title even meant...watched it again years later as an adult and immediately understood why everyone thought it was so brilliant; applaud the POV directing style of Jonathan Demme
Gotta give a shoutout to Ted Levine. He was great as Buffalo Bill.
The film is a masterclass in putting a book on screen, but the thing is that Thomas Harris’ book is a masterpiece that is incredibly cinematic. The whole bait and switch of Lecter’ escape and the FBI being at the wrong house and you finding out when Buffalo Bill opens the door for Clarice is right from the novel, beat by beat. I remember reading it before the film came out and being shocked at both scenes. A chapter ends with the FBI knocking at the door and the next chapter has Buffalo Bill opening the door and it’s Clarice, my God I freaked out reading that😂. Hell, even the moth fluttering and she realizing what she’s gotten herself into, it’s all from the book. One of the few times the movie and book are equally masterpieces.
My favorite performance by an actress of all time. Clarice showed intelligence, wit, confusion, and fear - all which were performed by Jodie Foster perfectly.
Perfect film adaption of the Thomas Harris novel, while cutting and adjusting scenes just rightly enough for a fitting runtime. The editing between Clarice and the sting squad going to the two different possible addresses, only to reveal Clarice found the right one was astounding and well illustrates to book's surprise too! Every casting and portrayal was above and beyond honorable to the source material. I only wish they kept Buffalo Bill's final words to Starling from the book, as he lays dying, "how does it feel..to be..so beautiful?..." cementing the killer's tragic humanity and his unattainable desire to be "transformed," while a moth circles above in his green night-vision sight, descending closer and closer to envelop its large wings over, and putting to rest Buffalo Bill.
I saw a double feature of this movie and Aliens at the Paramount Theater in Austin Texas. It was to represent strong female roles in movies. It was such a killer combination. I've never seen either movies in theaters before, and both blew me away. 2 supremely iconic films.
One of the best films ever made. Ted Levine is so underrated in the movie though, everyone praised Foster and Hopkins but forgot about Levine. He was incredible, and he didnt even get an invitation to the Oscars that year!
In my opinion, Anthony Hopkins gave the greatest performance I have ever seen in a motion picture. This is one of my favorite films of all time and I'm extremely glad Chris finally gives his thoughts on this.
I've not read a lot of books but due to prison time for a few months (first and last time, over 30 years ago for a silly crime ) I read 'Silence of the Lambs' and all I'll state is WOW, the movie did a great job
what crime babe
@@kievbound9146 intent to supply speed
Hopkins and Foster were such a dynamic duo.
My all time favourite film that delivers in my opinion a top tier rank of best performances and detail through the vision and cinematography. A masterpiece in every aspect. The soundtrack is also a must buy as well. Made me a fan of Anthony and Jodie through their separate careers. Absolutely a big moment in film history for seeing one of the greatest film experiences with its art and power.
There's actually something quite subtle going on with the cinematography that makes Lecter different to all the other men in the film.
When we are in the perspective of every other man, looking at Clarisse, we are looking down on her. But from Lecters perspective, we are always looking straight on.
This gives the subconscious hint to the audience that unlike every other man in her life, Hannibal Lecter, of all people, actually respects her.
I absolutely am in love with this observation! Having seen it at least 30 times since I saw it in the theater in 1991, I feel stupid never picking up on this. Thank you so much.
A master piece , no less. A movie for the ages. I will never forget the feelings I got the first time I saw it in Bilbao, in 1991. I knew right away I was watching something extraordinary. I was in my early twenties then and I already loved movies. Silence of the Lambs has remained my number 1 favorite of all time. Thank you very much to everyone involved in the making of this movie.
Anthony Hopkins only had 24 minutes of screentime, yet he deservedly scooped up the Oscar for his unnerving portrayal of Hannibal Lecter. He probably should have been nominated for Supporting Actor, though.
I agree. Though this issue is not exclusive to Thrillers. Cough *Marlon Brando* cough cough.
Timeless classic! thank you Chris. I just want to point out one thing: The Silence of the Lambs is one of a kind, but it's also very well-praised. 'Red Dragon', on the other hand, is VERY underated - sometimes I think it's even on the same level of Demme's masterpiece. It's an awesome film and i hope you'll get the chance to give it it's flowers in a review.
Oh, and there's Ridley Scott's 'Hanibal', which you can probably skip on lol
The Lector reveal in the ambulance is TRULY among the greatest plot twists in movie history...
Completely agree - I can only imagine how audiences reacted to that moment back in 1991.
The escape set piece is a masterclass in filmmaking: acting, pacing, framing...Silence is one of the "perfect" movies.
This has always been my favorite movie of all time. Criminal Psychology has always piqued my interest and this movie is always so fascinating for not only Criminal Psychology but also great film making.
piqued
abslutely worthy of ”the big five” (actor, actress, movie, screenplay, durector). loved the reference to hepburn and capote. and the score!
Fantastic review! I liked your highlighting of the shots from Starling's POV, and the way male characters look at her. I also think Scott Glenn get overlooked as yet another male character who subtly manipulates her but also mentors her, just like Hopkins. Just for the record Hopkins has about 42mins. of screen time(yes I'm the kind of movie nerd who times things out like that, lol). I had heard it was 20 mins. years ago and knew that couldn't be true, and I was right. Sorry I just had to point this out.
Easily in my top ten films ever. I met Ted Tally a few years ago and he said writing the screenplay was challenging as he had just become a father for the first time so having the joy of a new born in the house and the darkness of the Silence Of The Lambs to write played havoc with him.
One aspect of the film most people overlook is Demme's direction to the actors. In most cases, the characters are speaking directly into the camera. This unconsciously heightens the involvement of the viewer.
The final shot of Hannibal walking behind doctor Chilton to his certain doom, is a scene that I watch to its completion through the end credits wishing it would never end. That's how you end a movie
One of the best Horror/Thriller Films ever made. Jodie And Anthony earned their Oscars and Ted deserved A Oscar nomination as well. This And Hannibal Show are on another level.
My favorite movie of all time!! Every aspect was done brilliantly and holds up just as well today!
Thank you so much Chris for your perspective and insight. I have enjoyed your content for several years and I so respect your opinion, as it is very rare to find anyone who approaches film critique the way you do.
Naturally I got super excited when I saw you'd chosen to do one of these retrospective reviews of Silence of the Lambs. This is one of the ones that I agree most with you on. This movie is flawless and should be on the curriculum of everyone wanting to make phycological thrillers... or even just very well made movies.
You are really delivering with these uploads as u promised
Oh man, this movie is sooo GOOD! Everything about is perfect. The editing and cinematography is excellent, the acting (for all mains) is almost nothing like you’ve seen them do.
I recently watched this, and I'm not normally someone that pays attention to how well directed, cut, and assembled the movie was. But, as I was watching it, I really noticed how clever so many choices in the movie were. The movie is brilliantly done, and it's too bad we don't have more psychological thrillers like this.
This is by far one of my favorite films of all time. I still can't believe Chris Stuckman never reviewed this, lol. But literally jaw dropping performance by everyone in it. If you haven't experienced this true psychological masterpiece, this iconic testament to film you are missing out. Please I implore you all to be sucked into Jonathan Demme (director) take on this adaptation ❤
Watched in 2024.& must say its masterpiece mindblowing psycho thriller movie. What an Amazing act by Anthony as Dr. Lectar. No movies till today come closure to this.
Chris you have no idea how many times I requested you for reviewing this movie. I saw dvd or blue ray on your background several times. I wanted you to talk about it. And finally it is here. I think it is most anticipated movie review. Thank you.
Excellent review - you think ... the person that should be questioning Lecter should be a 6' 4" agent not Starling, but that's exactly the point.. it has to be Starling - that's why she was chosen.
"I'm having an old friend for dinner" - one of the best lines in movie history - lol
Damn Chris, may I say that you are never missing with a Halloween Special review!
Jodie Foster's portrayal of strength through vulnerability is MASTER CLASS. Utter badass. 😎
10/10 perfect film imo.
Sir Anthony Hopkins gives one of the greatest performances I’ve ever seen, up with Daniel day Lewis in there will be blood.
Hey Chris, I loved your review of this! Also I’ve been wondering, have you ever considered reviewing the Cartoon Network miniseries Over the Garden Wall for your Halloween special? It’s my all time favorite cartoon and a great introduction for younger audiences into the horror genre. Would love to see you review it some day!
I just rewatched this over the weekend and thought I can't believe Chris has never covered this. And look what I got today!! I jumped for joy when this notification came through
I watched the movie my favourite scene believe it or not is the opening scene it's full with detail it's insane
I'd love you to review Michael Mann's Manhunter. Such a riveting, and thrilling take on a very similar concept.
I cannot forget that basement scene between Clarice and Buffalo Bill. Absolutely amazing!
I saw this movie when it first came out. It was great to experience it in a theater on opening weekend. I've never been as tense as I was near the end of this movie. I was disturbed, stressed and a little exhausted when I was leaving the theatre.
I went into this one blind when it first came out and that was one of my all-time best cinema experiences.
Perfect film. Easily in top ten films of all time. So many films (Seven / Saw etc) and TV shows (CSI etc) would not exist at all or be very different without this all-time classic. Another film in the series, Manhunter (1986) is also essential viewing after/before this one.
Hopkins in undeniably great, but does anyone else think Mads Mikkelson's portrayal of Hannibal Lector in the TV series is the best portrayal of the character? He's just so, so good.
Without Anthony Hopkin this would have been a great movie, but Anthony Hopkin made it into a Cinema Classic for centuries to come.
It is funny because everyone knows about Hannibal Lecter, even those that haven't seen the film, to the point that many think that the iconic line of put the lotion in the basket was said by Anthony Hopkin.
It was a master class in acting.
Demme deserved a few more words, imo. I freaking love when you're in appreciation mode & know your stuff so deeply.
Bravo
Ive been watching the Stuckmann Halloween special for years now! Man it’s been like 10 years or more
I saw this film recently in March having not seen it for years and it was a pleasure to remind myself why this is such a great film. Interestingly in the opening scene, Clarice turns back at the assault course when her best option would just be to complete as it is a shorter journey
I do have to say though it would have been better to post your review of this on Valentine's Day rather than the day before Halloween as that was when it went Nationwide in the US in 1991 just days after Dances With Wolves (its predecessor for Best Picture) was nominated for 12 Oscars
What you point out its really important: the fact that the camera shows ous Clarice's point of view and how men treat her differentely. Great direction.
I just watched this movie for the first time this October. This review came at a good time. 🙏
One of my favourite movies of all time! I rewatch it every few years and every time I find something new to appreciate about it. It's about time for a rewatch, so thanks for the reminder!
I have been waiting for this review for a very long time
I love when buffalo bill realize that she knows and he throws the cards in the air as a distraction. I always laugh at that scene 😅😅
It's so good. Ted Levine fully embodies BB much like Hopkins does HL. The voice, movement, everything. Fantastic.
@@sammygirl6910 I agree they gave so much to those roles, I love it. One of my all time favorites.
Saw this at the drive-in on first date sitting in the back of a pickup truck. Couldn't turn away. Amazing .
I will see this tonight with some roasted liver, fava beans and a nice Chianti...
My sister got to meet Anthony Hopkins in Richmond Virginia. She was a waitress at a local bar/restaurant. She was so shocked to see him. This was right before he filmed Hannibal. She said he was super sweet and so small. Crazy right? Well Anthony Hopkins apparently goes to hole in the wall restaurants/ bars wherever he goes and leaves a book that he has read. He left a book at his table. My sister saw the book and ran after him as he left. He told her the book is yours. When I read a great book and I finish it I always leave it behind for someone else to find. He doesn’t sign it or anything like that. I just thought the world and you Chris 😉 should know how amazing he is. What a cool experience my sister had. I’m so glad I can share it. I wish I was there to experience it.
So glad you gave props to Ted Levine. He was absolutely shafted of an oscar nomination. He’s the Harvey Dent of this movie, and by that I mean, he delivers a phenomenal villain performance, but understandably gets overshadowed by the incredible work Hopkins did, similar to Aaron Eckhart in The Dark Knight, because Heath was just mindblowingly good.
Buffalo Bill is fucking terrifying in the movie, but a really fascinating character.
Can I admit something? I didn't love this film when I watched it for the only time I have so far. That's because I had read the book originally and absolutely loved that, so I was disappointed when they left a bunch of details out. One such moment was the realization that Lecter's "William Rubin" was just a play on bilirubin, a compound found in poop that also has an element in it that was either called or connected to Chilton, the head of the Baltimore State Hospital he was kept in. Since then, I have come to accept that book-to-film adaptations will have to make changes, so maybe I'll end up loving the film as well the next time I see it.
The ending was one change that I really liked, where Lecter calls Starling instead of just writing her a letter. It gives us one last moment of the incredible performances from the two leads. And that "I'm having an old friend for dinner" line is one of the best in fiction history. Lecter is one of my favorite characters, though I don't admit it freely since it can make people look at me in a weird way.
I’ve been waiting for this review for years, and for you to finally bring it makes me so happy. Ah, I’m so lonely.
One of the greatest films ever made! Still my favorite Best Picture winner
Chris is on that halloween grind! Keep em coming!!!
I keeping thinking of the Loaded weapon 1 parody now lol
The editing on the last part with the raid is... A masterpiece
Anthony Hopkins portrayal of Lecter created an archetype, a lot like Darth Vader did when he was introduced in Star Wars. Everyone knows who Hannibal is, through sort of cultural osmosis. I love this movie, and if you haven't seen the TV show from a few years ago with Mads Mikkelsen you really should check it out.
Even in a straight jacket Hannibal was giving style compliments and I love the senator responds.
Ted Levine is one of the nicest celebrities I have ever met. I saw him at supermarket checkout and felt bad for staring at him then he looked back and said "yeah, it's me." with a chuckle
Fantastic movie and one of my favorites. I finally saw it when I was in high school but I remember going to a local video store and being 6-8 years old at the time, it was the only movie that my mother would forbid me to rent despite my watching a lot of horror growing up (Critters 2 and Pumpkinhead being two that stood out). I distinctly remember just being captivated by the VHS cover at the time as a kid though.
Thanks for another fun Halloween season, Chris!
I actually really love Anthony Heald. Met him at Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland while he was performing at a Starbucks. Told him how much I loved him in this movie. Was a great moment in my life.
I like how we see people close up from her perspective and other people looking at her close up
Man I just finished watching the last Paco Plaza film, "Hermana Muerta" it's on Netflix and I founded an amazing movie🍿 knowing that you enjoyed one of his films (REC) I think you will love his last work. I strongly recommend it. Thank you for everything Chris!❤
Clarice isn't a loner. She has a fellow female cadet who hangs out with her. They train together. They do research together. And she graduates at the end as well, all of which I loved. Clarice is not a lone wolf. She seeks help and community, which is part of why she's so good at her job. It's subtle and in the background, but I loved it. Female support and solidarity.
Just watched this a few weeks back for a class - super excited to see you review it!
So glad you finally get to talk about my all-time favorite movie!
It seems like some actors are just meant for certain roles. They're so good that you can't imagine anyone else playing that character. For me, one of them is Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter. His refined yet sinister presence makes him captivating on screen.
Jodie Foster is also amazing and deserves praise for the success of the movie. She played the naive but ambitious intern agent exceptionally well. She's not on the same level as Lecter, and they both know it, but she can use her inner feelings to her advantage. Lecter admires her ambition and drive. When it comes to Foster, I also automatically think of her role in the film as Clarice Starling.
Buffalo Bill had enough screen time to make him interesting for the audience, but not too much to carry the movie alone, and that's what makes "The Silence of the Lambs" great. He's just a side dish, while Lecter is the main course.
The final scene is stunning. Nothing more than a phone call, a hint of what's to come, and this continuous scene fades away as the credits roll. It leaves you craving much more.
Definitely a movie that everyone should see. Yes, there are some disturbing scenes, but they're not unnecessary and honestly make the movie more realistic. It's a brilliantly smart thriller, not just seeking cheap thrills or scares.
Also yeah that finale with Clarice roaming the house I was surprised at how intense the movie got for me.
Went to this as an earlier public screening, no title, no info except it had Jody Foster in it. WOW what an impact. 100% full giant old school hall.
Starling was one of the greatest really "strong female characters". No comparison with our day's "Mary Su" (Especially in Disney movies)