for once, a movie that lives up to all the hype

Rating: 8/10 (16 September 2003)

I doubt I have much to say in the way of praise for this magnificent film that already hasn't been said better by someone else, so I'll keep this short. "The Silence of the Lambs" is a film that grips me every time I watch it--an entrancing, mesmerizing experience that sheds the pulp and trashiness usually associated with the horror genre, transcending into a tasteful, terrifying, and wonderfully-acted masterwork. Jonathan Demme, who started his career making pulpy exploitation, exhibits maturity and confident directoral skill. It goes without saying that Anthony Hopkins' portrayal of Hannibal Lecter is one of the most intelligent, multilayered depictions of a psychotic ever committed to celluloid, and Jodie Foster's twerpy, Southern-fried FBI agent is easily his equal; the understated Ted Levine is also excellent (and underappreciated) as the Ed Gein-ish serial killer who skins his victims. Basically, if you haven't seen this movie, what are you waiting for?
8/10