RED DRAGON [2002] Edward Norton, Anthony Hopkins ; Rated 15

For those of you who are not aware, 'Red Dragon' is a prequel not sequel to the thriller/masterpiece which was 'Silence of the Lambs'. It is basically a cinematic adaptation of the book that bares the same name, unlike the 80's flick 'Manhunter' which was an earlier big screen spin on the same book. Putting reflex comparisons of this latest showcase and 'Silence of the Lambs' to one side, I can say that 'Red Dragon' is without a doubt a worthy cinematic venture for Hannibal Lector. Unlike the terribly poor 'Hannibal', this film brings back the suspense and grit which 'Silence' had and thankfully this time Hopkins is back on form with the character which won him an Oscar back in the 90's. Behind Hopkins though is Brett Ratner, the guy who blessed us with the Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker vehicle 'Rush Hour' and of course it's sequel. Surprisingly Ratner makes the transition from directing slapstick action comedies to fearsome thrillers without any trouble whatsoever. I think he probably comes as close as anyone could to capturing the same atmosphere and feel that 'Silence' had and he should be commended for managing to make us believe that it really is set before the days of 'Clarice Starling' even though actors like Hopkins look obviously aged as opposed to how they looked in 'Silence' some 12 years earlier. The film does sometimes lose it's way however a little and there are parts where you wonder if it's going to lose itself in all it's intertwining complexities but thankfully it doesn't and it manages to play itself out with style. It does nevertheless as a result feel like it's trailing off a little bit in the last hour, but I feel that is more because of the captivating first three quarters of an hour being of such a high standard rather than the film getting lost. The only other point I feel I should mention is regarding the music, I found it a little too overpowering in places and though hitting the spot occasionally, for the most part I felt it created a slightly overpowering presence which I think in retrospect only added to the problems, however minor, the film experienced in the last half. 'Red Dragon' though is very good and if your a fan of 'Dr. Lector' I suggest you either eat a friend for dinner or head on down to your nearest multiplex.

4/5