The silence is broken with Ridley Scott's superb adaptation of a sequel that has kept audiences waiting for ten years, and will have audiences talking about for the next ten years.

What makes it a remarkable achievement is that, despite the horror and suspense, it is one of the most fascinating and tragic love stories ever told.   A story about love that turns into an obsession, and an obsession that turns into a lonely and pitiful existence. A story about those who seek freedom, and ultimately find it in the aftermath of impulsive and instinctive actions.

Hannibal comes with baggage. Heavy baggage. Thomas Harris' best-selling novels; the box-office hit Silence of the Lambs (which received 5 Oscar awards including Best Picture); and Michael Mann's explosive film Manhunter. The baggage and expectations so heavy in fact, that two of the world greatest screenwriters were called in to write the screenplay: David Mamet and Steven Zailian.

This all rests in the vision of one man: director Ridley Scott, whose stylised visualisation reminds strongly of his brother Tony Scott's 1983 The Hunger.

Scott's brilliance is evidence in how he manipulates the heavy subplotted and subtexted storyline: challenging the audience and teasing them with superb craftsmanship - almost like Hannibal stalking one of his victims. The excellent exposition explodes when the reality of what is happening, and what is about to unfold, collides.  The audience is jolted into an uncomfortable resolution, where there is little light in the darkness of Hannibal's crazed mindscape.

Scott defuses the graphic and gory detail with masterful visual dynamics, using the splendid canvas of cinema to paint subtle strokes of genius.

The exceptional production design and cinematography are blessed with another great score by Hans Zimmer. It is a haunting soundtrack, offering beautiful angelic purity contrasting heavily with the pounding and rhythmic beat. This is further highlighted by mind-blowing sound design and incredible make-up design.

An added bonus is the great cast, headed by Anthony Hopkins and Julian Moore, with strong support from Gary Oldman and Ray Liotta. The actors bring depth and understanding to characters that connect with the audience on an almost primeval level.

If you have not seen Silence of The Lambs, please do so before watching Hannibal. A lot of the exposition and especially the relationship between Dr. Lecter and Clarice will seem confusing.

People will definitely talk about Hannibal.

Hannibal will linger in the minds of those who indulge in disturbing psycho-thrillers. 

Have a taste of a truly frightening and shocking experience before others spoil the meal.