Demme's masterpiece is gripping, psychotic, thought provoking and perfectly performed

Rating: 9/10 (9 March 2009)

"A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti"
What more could encapsulate the psychotic nature of this charged thriller?
Silence of the Lambs follows Clarice Starling's FBI investigation into a string of sadistic murders by a killer known as 'Buffalo Bill'. A break-through in the case can only be found through the interrogation of the brilliant yet outlandishly insane confined psychologist, Hannibal 'The Cannibal' Lecter. Hannibal will only provide the information in exchange for Clarice to tell him about her own personal life which acts as the fantastic foundation for the title of this lucrative masterpiece.
The story was structured and shot perfectly. The film was constantly charged with suspense and tension, littered with thought-provoking dialogue oozing with intrigue. The performances were just awe-inspiring as the academy acknowledge. Anthony Hopkins was simply chilling as the twisted, genius that is Hannibal Lecter. Chills also arise through Ted Levine's frightening invention of the character of Buffalo Bill. Levine should have notched up a nomination for a best supporting actor at the Oscars due to the performance's flawless ability to chill and disturb. Also, Foster can not be forgotten as she played the multi-faceted character of Clarice Starling. Foster conjures an awesome balance of emotion to flawlessly invent the character of Clarice.
Overall, Silence of the Lambs is engaging, disturbing, chilling and holds it's ground as one of the greatest thrillers of all time.