Sunday 2 October 2016

Silence of the lambs – 'Godfather' of all classics


"Silence of The Lambs" is a modern-day "classic." If by some odd chance you have never seen this movie, be warned it is a dark, difficult story to watch at times.... but it will get your mind off other things. This movie is not for the squeamish with those scenes with Buffalo Bill the serial killer and other scenes involving the infamous Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Hopkins). Jodie Foster is excellent as the FBI agent "Clarice Starling" and Scott Glenn is low-key and effective as "Jack Crawford." A major part of the film is psychological more than violent as Lecter constantly taunts "Clarice," while she tries her best to manipulate him to help with a case. The by-play between the two is a game in itself. Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter, is a brutal killer with revolting methods and habits, but he's also very intelligent, charismatic and with good taste (you can interpret that as you like). A cliché by now, but who cares? He still is one of the key elements in this wonderful thriller, which sees Jodie Foster's Clarice Starling asking for Lecter's help to catch another killer. The result is a dangerous yet fascinating relationship between the young, unexperienced FBI-agent and the convicted, but basically omnipotent, psychiatrist. He’s a step ahead of everyone all the time, and makes sure everyone notices, with his witty, unforgettable one-liners. If there had to be only one reason to worship this movie, then it would have to be the chemistry between the two leading actors. Never before has a non-sexual man/woman connection been more thrilling.
Director Jonathan Demme is masterful. There is one scene late in the movie that I will not spoil. It is one of the most simply brilliant scenes ever staged in a movie. I don't know if all the credit goes to Demme or the writers, but there is a moment in the film where the suspense builds beautifully to a what seems to be a common movie scene. However, through skilful timing of the direction, the audience’s assumptions are used against them and when the truth is revealed (hint: it involves a doorbell).
This movie is a treat to watch to all those who like mystery/ thriller movies, there isn’t a scene where you can get distracted. Although there are many violent and disturbing scenes, hence it’s a strict adult movie. parental guidance for this movie is advised.
Verdict for this movie is 4/5.

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