Red Dragon (2002) - Brett Ratner

Synopsis:

Set before the events of The Silence of the Lambs, a retired FBI agent, responsible for the undoing of Hannibal the Cannibal, now enlists the serial killer in an attempt to find a new serial killer that has dubbed himself the red Dragon.

A very simlar premise to that of The Silence of the Lambs but still keeps itself fresh by throwing in new situations and structure built by the iconic Hannibal character in the 1991 classic. The religious tropes make for an interesting and more mysterious narrative as well as the incorporation of a far more active and and threatening villain add a sense of real danger to the protagonist. A strong cast and a strong film, if not slightly overshadowed by the original outing.

Rating:
★★★★

The Silence of the Lambs (1991) - Jonathon Demme

Synopsis:

A FBI student enlists the help of a locked-up serial killer to help find Buffalo Bill, an infamous murderer who takes the skin of his victims.

An incredibly deep psychological ride which utilises its talented cast to the fullest extent. You can feel the raw passion and convictions that drives their performances as one of cinema's greatest villains is brought to life.  No wonder this film won in all top five academy awards. An exceptional thing considering its genre and just testament of its writing, direction and cast. When you get these three things right and blend them up within a cauldron of suspense, intrigue, and an unconventional soul, you've no doubt got a recipe for success. If there's one horror film that can stand up to and hold its own with the greatest films of all time, its this one. 

Rating:

★★★★★