Mesmerising, shocking, beautifully crafted - watch it

Rating: Null/10 (9 October 2003)

I still can't believe that it was only five months ago that I first saw Demme's thrilling masterpiece (I know - what is WRONG with me????) and the minute I tuned in I was hooked. You're taken on the shocking journey of keen young FBI Agent Clarice Strarling's search for serial killer, Buffalo Bill. However, in order to get the information she needs, she must interrogate Dr. Hannibal Lecter, jailed in a mental institution for his famous cannibalism. That, by far, is the most interesting bit of the movie - watching the twisted relationship form between Starling and Lecter (played magnificently by the wonderful Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, who both deservedly won Oscars for their performences.) And although he's a goddamn psycho, you can't help but cheer him on. Why? Bceause you know Clarice is the only one he won't harm in any way. Although the audience knows there shouldn't be, the chemistry between the two is sizzlng. Even if you're not a fan of cannibalism, serial killers or screaming lambs, you just won't be able to resist this exhilerating, beautifully crafted classic. Altogether now: "I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti..."