How to do a novel adaptation right

Rating: 10/10 (9 December 2012)

One of only a handful of films that successfully adapt a novel to the screen. The movie manages to perfectly capture the thrilling atmosphere of the novel, and for that reason alone, is a strong film in its own right.
Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter is chilling right from his first shot. And despite having less than 30 minutes of screen time, his influence is felt throughout the entire film.
Jodie Foster is right at the same level. Not until the end did I notice her seamless transition from a submissive to dominant character. Her performance shone through and carried the film.
The direction is spot on; tight and tense. There is a remarkable buildup of suspense, particularly at one point towards the end that made my heart race.
Perhaps the most amazing accomplishment is that every technical aspect managed to not stick out in an overt way. Instead, they all blended perfectly to create the right mood, which is what film is all about. I cannot recommend this film enough. You get well-crafted writing, outstanding performances, thrilling direction, and an all-together feeling of terror.