Set before “The Silence of the Lambs,” experienced FBI agent Will Graham seeks Hannibal Lecter’s help to track down a serial killer with a split personality who goes by the name, “The Tooth Fairy.” His M.O. is biting his victims with his sharp teeth. Will’s detective skills are put to the test. I already discussed briefly about Red Dragon’s production history on my review of “The Silence of the Lambs.” So, I’ll skip the details.
Released in 2002, (same year YuYu Hakusho aired on Adult Swim) “Red Dragon” earned positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to praise, the prequel earned enough revenue at the box office. It’s Halloween Month. Meaning, I’ll review Horror films throughout October. Which one should I review next? Please leave a comment.
This review contains no SPOILERS.
Full & Empty Aspects
Full: Anthony Hopkins reprises his role as Hannibal Lecter. He did an excellent job for his performance.
Edward Norton (one of my all-time favorite actors) did an excellent job for his performance as Will Graham.
Other Cast Members such as Ralph Fiennes, Harvey Keitel, Emily Watson, Mary-Lousie Parker and the late Philip Seymour Hoffman all did a splendid job for their respective performances.
Brett Ratner did a solid job directing. I’m only praising him as a director, not a decent human being. He’s actually a jerkstore off camera.
Scare Factor has a creepy atmosphere.
Death Scenes are brutal and not for anybody with weak stomach.
Danny Elfman orchestrated the soundtrack. I also got my pic with him at Fan Expo Dallas 2025. Good times.
Fun Facts
- Mr. Norton and Mr. Hoffman also co-starred in Spike Lee’s “25 Hour.” I consider Spike’s film as his best work.
- Coincidentally, Philip & Emily worked with Adam Sandler in “Punch-Drunk Love.”
- Red Dragon’s also a remake of “Manhunter” with Brian Cox as Hannibal.
Ted Tally (The Silence of the Lambs, White Palace) wrote the script.
Cinematography was shot in stable condition lacking technical flaws.
Pacing wasn’t a slow burn. I was hooked right from the get-go.
Will’s chemistry with Hannibal serves as the main highlight. If Will has to track down Tooth Fairy, he’ll need the help he can get from another serial killer.
At the 37 minute mark, there are VHS tapes of “E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial” & “Mrs. Doubtfire.” Steven Spielberg released E.T. updating the effects. Resulting in controversy. Mr. Norton worked with Robin Williams in “Death to Smoochy.”
The film’s titled is actually named after William Blake’s painting, “The Great Red Dragon.” It plays a crucial part.
Given its based on the first book of the Hannibal Lecter series, Will’s seasoned FBI agent who was the first person to apprehend Hannibal. If Clarice Starling tried to arrest Hannibal on her first day, she wouldn’t last long.
We learn about Tooth Fairy’s troubled back story.
Tooth Fairy isn’t a carbon copy of Buffalo Bill. He’s a villain with family issues growing up. He doesn’t dance to “Goodbye Horses” like the latter.
Ellen Burstyn provides the voice of Tooth Fairy’s grandma.
Bill Duke (Mac from Predator) has a small role as a police chief.
Primary Themes are Trauma, Duality & Isolation. Each one’s handled maturely.
Last scene immediately sets up The Silence of the Lambs.
Empty: I couldn’t find anything wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew and Extra Point for making a flawless prequel as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
I consider Red Dragon as a better prequel than “Attack of the Clones” and a legit remake. If you’re lookin’ for something to watch during Halloween Month, perhaps a double header. Start with Red Dragon. Then, The Silence of the Lambs. Skip Ridley Scott’s “Hannibal” & “Hannibal Rising.” They pale in comparison with the former two.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 