Rating: 
Summary: Now cannibals are widescreen heroes - help U.S.!
Review: I'm sad to say things that people should know but unfortunately often don't or don't want to know, but remember this: the action of "Red Dragon" takes place before "The Silence of the Lambs". Thomas Harris published "Red Dragon" seven years before "The Silence..." and tells the story of Will Graham, his real hero, the one who managed to arrest Lecter. At this moment, Clarice Starling is only a teen girl, still in her farm.So forget about "The Silence", forget about Jodie Foster, forget about Jonathan Demme, forget all about this film which takes place in a future, after "Red Dragon", also forget about the awful and useless "Hannibal"; and watch Michael Mann's "Manhunter" instead, starring William Petersen, Brian Cox, Dennis Farina and Tom Noonan, before watching its remake, let's not be afraid of words. Because this is one more Hollywood remake above all, before being a so-called 'prequel', and produced with an obvious commercial purpose. And frankly there's not much to think about the presence of too cool Brett "Rush Hour 1&2" Ratner behind the camera to direct such a movie. Because he's first a comedy maker, he doesn't know anything about the thriller genre. As a beginning, it's rather strong and heavy... Another sad thing to be said: America is more and more fond of criminals... on the screen. As Freddy or Jason, Dr. Lecter is about to be as popular as Superman or Lady Di. The best thing is, he's a cannibal...
Rating: 
Summary: Red Dragon Faithful
Review: I usually dislike seeing a movie after I have read the book, simply because, as most know, the book is almost always better. I will make an exception in this case. The movie was impressively well done and the knowledge gained from the book only enhanced the experience.
I loved "Silence of the Lambs" but was disappointed with "Hannibal". I am very happy to say that not only did I love "Red Dragon", but it also gave me just as many thrills and chills as the book did.
And for those "Manhunter" fans that might be baulking at what they perceive to be "just a poor remake" you are missing out. I liked "Manhunter" but Dragon blows it away. Not only is Dragon much more faithful to the authors original vision, but the screenplay is much better written, the movie better acted and directed.
Rating:
Summary: BEST MOVIE OF THE 2002 SEASON
Review: In RED DRAGON, Brett Ratner (director) and Ted Tally (screenwriter) tackle the age old question -- "Can a movie be as good as the book?" In this case, I'm happy to report that the answer is a resounding "YES" as this movie is as good as, if not better, than the book. Of the three books in the "Lecter" series, RED DRAGON has always been my favorite and I was excited when I heard that Ted Tally (Academy Award winner for Silence of the Lambs) would be adapting it for the screen. From the first scene in the movie, which is jump-out-of-your-seat exciting, you know you are in for the ride of your life as the pace just continually quickens and never lets up. In addition to a great script, I'd be remiss in not mentioning the unbelievable score by Danny Elfman. The music is so perfectly timed and instead of taking away from the entire movie going experience, it only adds to it. RED DRAGON is such a total package. You're not only rewarded with a star studded and immensely talented cast, but you also come to realize how powerful a great script can be in the hands of a great director. This is Frances Dolarhyde's story and the casting of Ralph Fiennes in the main role is nothing short of genius. I'm just hoping that it's really Ralph's body we see running through the house. The other main role of FBI agent Will Graham is played by Ed Norton, who is simply mesmerizing in this part. I don't know who did the casting but they should receive a huge bonus. Emily Watson as Dolarhyde's blind girlfriend gives an academy award winning performance as does Philip Seymour Hoffman in the role of Freddy Lounds. While we're all now familiar with Anthony Heard of Boston Public fame, his performance in RED DRAGON is not from any school play I've ever seen. And I'm pleased to report that Harvey Keitel OWNS the role of Jack Crawford. In my opinion, the only weak link in the casting was that of Mary-Louise Parker as Graham's wife. I just didn't see it but what do I know. I can't remember the last time I saw a movie where there wasn't a lull. I think that's the true test of a great thriller. Not only is it exciting from beginning to end, it's also cohesive. You won't walk out of the theater wondering what was going on because it's all so beautifully and skillfully laid out. Fans of Hannibal Lecter will especially appreciate Tally's treatment at the beginning of the movie as well as a great last line leading us into Silence of the Lambs. I guess there won't be any reviewers who will write about this movie without mentioning Manhunter, an earlier remake of RED DRAGON. After seeing RED DRAGON, all I can say is that there's no comparison. While Mann's script concentrates much more on Will Graham's relationship with his wife and family, Tally's script concentrates more on his relationship with Hannibal Lecter, which is definitely the crowd pleaser. Tally's script is also much truer to Harris' book and this is one thing that bothered me about Manhunter. Harris' original ending was fabulous yet Mann chose to change it. Fans of Harris will definitely not be disappointed with Tally's ending. It's simply AMAZING!!!! And, by the way, it will be worth the price of admission just to hear Lecter utter the word "oodles." So while "a nice Chianti" and "fava beans" were the buzz words from Silence of the Lambs, "oodles" will definitely be the word you remember from RED DRAGON. What a great movie!!!! Kudos to all involved.
Rating:
Summary: Possibly the best Hannibal dish of them all.
Review: The movie going public is obviously well acquainted with the most famous serial killer, cannibal, in cinematic history, Hannibal Lecter. In 2002's 'RED DRAGON,' Hannibal is back with force and vengeance, thanks to the brilliant portrayal of Sir Anthony Hopkins and inspired writing of screenwriter Ted Tally. He's got some of the best lines in the business. 'RED DRAGON,' for the most part is a remake of Michael Mann's 1986 'Manhunter.' Obviously there isn't a lot of variation between the two since they are both adaptations of Thomas Harris' book 'RED DRAGON.' But that is were the simularity ends. Sure, some scenes are structed the same, but to be fair this latest installment is closer and more true to the novel. For those that read the book or saw 'Manhunter,' it's no surprise that Hannibal had a rather small role. Ted Tally took some license and beefed up the character for some crucial scenes, adding a very interesting and inventive twist. From the onset, we see the capture of Hannibal by FBI Agent Will Graham, played flawlessly this time around by Edward Norton. We are also privy to a rather more intense Lecter, anger and resentment for being caught and put away. Hopkins doesn't need to do much to convey his distaste for Graham, the true talent of an excellent actor. Lecter is not over the top as many say he was in the third film 'HANNIBAL.' But this is really not a Lecter story. It is focused more on Graham and the new killer on the block, Francis Dolarhyde (played to an eeriely perfection by Ralph Fiennes). One not of advisement, if 'The Silence Of The Lambs', or 'Hannibal,' gave you nightmares, you may not be prepared for 'Dragon.' It is absolutely brutal in it's visuals and psychological mind games. Dolarhyde, aka the 'Tooth Fairy' is a brutal serial killer who has killed two families and may be on the hunt for a third. It is this that brings Jack Crawford (Harvey Keitel) on the quest to seek out a retired Graham. Reluctantly, Graham decides to help with the investigation. Graham does possess a certain gift, he can think like the killer. But it does cause a dilemma. The one person that could really give our detective the insight he needs is the one man who tried to kill him, Lector. As Clarice in 'Silence' Graham must once again delve into Lecter's world of the asylum. Frederick Chilton is back as the head of the asylum, again played by Anthony Heald
(the 'old friend for dinner' guy). Heald is an absolute delight in a awkward sort of way. He's definetly a one off. Basically, he's not nearly as smart as he thinks he is. Possibly the most disturbing character of the film is played by Fiennes. He is essentially a sympathetic killer, and yet you really want to see this guy go down. Fiennes is stunning in this role and adds his own spark to the role. Emily Watson plays Fiennes uninformed love interest who happens to be blind, lucky for her. Philip Seymour Hoffman is the sleazy tabloid reporter who in time is destined to get his comupance. It is really unfortunate that the Academy Awards does not hand out status to ensemble casts. If they did, 'RED DRAGON,' would probably be the only nomination in the catagory. There hasn't been a cast like this in many years. There is an equal balance between the three main characters, Lecter, Graham, and Dolarhyde. Lecter was in it just enough to keep it constantly fresh and on edge. Dolarhyde takes it over the edge and Graham brings it subtly back. Brett Ratner as the director did an excellent job in setting the scenes, the creepy atmosphere, and letting the actors do what they do best. This film is a winner all the way around. If any thriller were put up against 'Silence,' this may be the one that could surpass it in regards to thrills, chills and just plain excellent storytelling. Though the 4 movies are destined to be lumped together, 'Manhunter,' 'The Silence Of The Lambs,' 'Hannibal,' and now 'The Red Dragon,' which is completely understandable, 'Dragon' stands on it's own. And does so extremely well. This movie is obviously not for everyone. There is graphic violence that is disturbing. Yet in this vehicle it is not overplayed as say, your average slasher movie. If you're going to plunk down your hard earned cash for a movie, 'Red Dragon,' is the one. It is a good solid interesting movie that never lets go. Once it's got you, it's got you. And that ride starts as the lights in the theater go down. There's not too many movies that can boast that. Tina Mrazik
Rating: 
Summary: Great film
Review: Saw an advanced screening last week. This is a great film, one of the best out this year, in a year of paltry serious releases that have included a short list that contains one hour photo, bourne identity, monsoon wedding, and the cinerama re-release of Lawrence of Arabia. It is much more "Silence" than "Hannibal" but with different primary characters (Ed Norton in place of Jodie Foster). There are some flaws, but overall a very good film. The acting cast, which includes Anthony Hopkins as classic Lecter, Ed Norton, Emily Watson (who deserves an Academy nomination as best supporting actress for this role), and Phillip Seymour Hoffman is phenomenal. Great visuals, suspense, and music. Expect this film to do well, critically and commercially.
Rating: 
Summary: BRETT DRAGGIN ....
Review: Let's not mince words about this clunker - see the original Michael Mann for real thrills - this one wastes talent, time and your {money}
Rating: 
Summary: It's Already Been Done.
Review: How can a 40 year old Jodie Foster play a character that should be in high school in this films time-line? Michael Mann's "Manhunter" is perfect! Why screw with it? I am happy with the casting of Edward Norton as Will Graham but I'm not sure he can play it as subtly and William Peterson did. Philip Seymour Hoffman is a great choice for Freddy Lounds, that was inspired. Ralph Fiennes as Francis Dolarhyde is absurd, he's just not physically frightening. Tom Noonan's performance in that role was amazing, one of the best antagonists in film history. I can't see Harvey Keitel as Jack Crawford, he's a great actor and I'm sure he can pull it off but I loved Dennis Farina in "Manhunter" and although he played it completely differently Scott Glenn was good in "The Silence of the Lambs". Emily Watson as Reba McClane should be good but it will be tough to match Joan Allen's work. As much as I love Anthony Hopkins Brain Cox will always be Hannibal Lecter to me. Worst of all is trading Michael Mann for Brett Ratner. At best I think it will be a disappointment, at worst it will be blasphemy.
Rating:
Summary: great
Review: Saw a early screening great movie almost better than silence but not quite. Great performances,directing,cinematography,and screenplay.
Rating:
Summary: YOU ARE PRIVY TO A GREAT BECOMING
Review: This review is for the Red Dragon skeptics out there. You are probably the same people who loved The Silence of the Lambs and absolutely hated Hannibal. Or maybe you're a Manhunter fan and see no need for a remake and find it insulting. Or you're a Brett Ratner hater, wondering how he can go from directing the action comedy Rush Hour 2 to the grisly Red Dragon. First off, I loved Lambs and admired Hannibal for not being a carbon copy sequel as most are. I hate those. Secondly Red Dragon is not a remake of Manhunter. The filmmakers and actors erased Manhunter from memory when making Red Dragon and relied solely on the text of Thomas Harris's novel. Ralph Fiennes, who plays the killer in Dragon, never saw Manhunter and used the vision of his character the book gave him when acting the part. Judging from trailers, commercials, and what I've read, Brett Ratner's version is much more faithful to Harris's plot and characters. Many plot details and scenes left out of Manhunter are included in Dragon. Now for all you Ratner haters mentioned earlier. Whose to say a director can't go from a light hearted action comedy to serious subject matter? Are the rules any different for actors? Tom Hanks went from comedic to dramatic and I don't hear anyone complaining. And Ratner has help. Thomas Harris's novel. Ted Tally, who wrote the screenplay to Lambs. What about the fine cast of actors? And Danny Elfman improving the score. As said before, Red Dragon is not a remake of Manhunter. Manhunter is investigator Will Graham's story wheras the novel is serial killer Frances Dolarhyde's story. Ratner's Dragon is Dolarhyde's story. Now for everyone who is sick of Hannibal Lecter. He's a minor character in the film. Beefed up a little from the novel to satisfy Hopkin's fans and certainly hyped in the trailers like this is his movie. The truth is it's not. It's Dolarhyde's (Ralph Fiennes) show. And Will Graham (Edward Norton) is the secondary player. This is unlike Lambs. Jodie Foster was the star, Hopkins was secondary, and the serial killer Buffalo Bill (Ted Levine) was hardly in it. Me, I couldn't care less about seeing another movie featuring Hannibal Lecter. I'm going for Ralph Fiennes's portrayal of Dolarhyde, the most interesting character in the book. The fact Lecter is in it is incidental. That doesn't mean I won't enjoy his performance. I'm also looking forward to seeing all the other actors tackle their roles. Red Dragon is the book that started it all (serial killer genre). Such great films as Seven owe Dragon for paving the way. The main reason to go is that it'll certainly be a lot of fun. And having fun is my main reason for going to the movies. That and escapism. Try putting aside your turn-offs and go see Red Dragon with an open mind. Do that and there's a good chance you'll enjoy it.
Rating:
Summary: Oh come one ppl
Review: All dino de laurentis is doing is that he is milking the hannibal lector franchise for all it is worth. and in finding brett ratner, he found the one director that would agree on making sequels as long he has a fat cheque. please. i dont really have high hopes for this movie, as silence of the lambs was unbelivably atmospheric and hannibal was outstandingly artistic, and Red Dragon doesnt have that surprise hype to make it a brilliant film and would therefore find it hard to excedd or even meet my expectations. And also, let me tell you people about a little film called Manhunter. Watch it as it is also a film based on the Red Dragon with Michael Mann at his best. Now that effort was also produced by Dino De Laurentis. And being that is an amazing film, why does he want to reinvent the wheel? He is making the same mistake Spielberg made with Jurrassic Park 3 and maybe even 2. Brett Ratner should stick to what he does best, and that is action-popcorn-comedy, and de Laurentis should just re-release Manhunter like they released 'Apocalypse Now: Redux', as a limited showing in the theatres. That way he'll make more money as Manhunter wasnt really marketed well. This way he is gonna learn that when you dont have a sequel in the level of T2 of the Godfather sequels, DONT release it. Soo ppl before watching this movie, please watch that little gem called manhunter. btw, edward norton is probably my current day favourite, but asking him to play will graham is like asking kevin spacey to play malcolm x. They should have chosen a more rough looking and hunky fella like the book describes. But it might be good... and it might be a really worthy remake of manhunter, although i think remaking Manthunter is like remaking the Great Escape. Being a fair person, the rating i have given this movie is just a rating of the idea of making Red Dragon. Once i have seen it, maybe that'll change. as of now it is no different that true lies 2 or t3. Take care of yourselves everyone and ciao
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