10 More Horror Movie Sequels MASSIVELY Better Than The Original
2. The Silence Of The Lambs
Technically, The Silence of the Lambs is not a sequel in the conventional sense, but, given that it chronologically takes place after Red Dragon and Hannibal Rising, it can work within this list. While Red Dragon serves as a solid if unspectacular entry in the franchise, and its 2007 follow-up far less so, none hold a candle to the 1991 Jonathan Demme-directed game-changer.
Much has been said about Anthony Hopkins' alluringly chilling performance as man-eating psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter, and deservedly so. The thespian breathes callous but captivating life into Lecter, and this is matched by the endearing but embattled energy Jodie Foster imbues Clarice Sterling with. Their mental games and verbal back and forth are an arresting example of excellent character work in cinema, expertly revealing that their antagonism gives way to an earned mutual respect and even care for each other.
In addition to the powerful lead performances, the supporting turns are wonderful across the board - especially Ted Levine's disturbing Buffalo Bill - and The Silence of the Lambs' thematic content is weighty, exploring misogyny in high-stakes work environments, and the nature/meaning of evil in human psyches.
It is unfortunate that The Silence of the Lambs' follow-ups/prequels did not match its brilliance, but their quality does not take away from the staying power of this wonderful feature.