THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS
Jonathan Demme (1991)
4.5 STARS
Hannibal Lecter, even just the name makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Adapted from Thomas Harris’ novel of the same name, Silence of the Lambs is arguably the best installment in a franchise with no lack of cinematic weight. Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins provide sterling performances that propel the psychological thriller forward. There is no end to the building of suspense making this a thoroughly captivating watch from credits to credits.
Unfortunately, the character of ‘Buffalo Bill’, expertly played by Ted Levine, is problematic with regards to the mis-representation of the trans community. The film suggests that his transgender identity has something to do with his evil acts, this needs to be considered, discussed and addressed. It doesn’t mean that the film isn’t a gem, it doesn’t make you a bad person for loving it, we just need to bear in mind that a person’s gender identity does not make them a villain, ever.