A review of the cult movie “Manhunter”
In 1991, “The Silence Of The Lambs” was a massive hit and seemingly introduced the cinematic world to Dr Hannibal Lecter (played by Anthony Hopkins). There was a sequel “Hannibal” (2001) and two prequels “Red Dragon” (2002) and “Hannibal Rising” (2007). However, actually it all started in cinematic terms – the series of four novels began in 1981 – in 1986 with “Manhunter” which was remade as “Red Dragon” (the title of the original novel), but the original film made very little impact.“Manhunter” was written and directed by Michael Mann and any film of his is worth viewing, but it must be admitted that this one is not easy viewing. This is mainly because most of the film is a slow exposition of the detailed procedural techniques utilised by FBI agent Will Graham (William Petersen) in the tracking down of the killer Francis Dollarhyde (Tom Noonan). Hannibal Lecter is on screen for only a short time and here is played by Brian Cox. This is a stylish work with careful use of colour, notably Mann’s hallmark blue, but we have to wait too long for real action.