5 Movie Characters Who Improved After Recasting (And 5 Who Didn't)

In 1991, the film adaptation of the Thomas Harris novel "The Silence of the Lambs" became a cultural phenomenon. The movie's narrative leans heavily on the bizarre relationship between Psychiatrist-turned serial killer Hannibal Lecter and FBI agent Clarice Starling.

Anthony Hopkins portrayal of the evil doctor was so strong, his counterpart needed to really bring the heat as Starling. Jodie Foster was brilliantly cast in the role. The chemistry between the two contributed to The Silence of the Lambs being nominated for seven Academy Awards that year, winning in the "big five" categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Actor (Hopkins), and Best Actress (Foster).

As excited as fans were to see Hopkins and Foster in the sequel, Hannibal, the role of Clarice Starling was given to Julianne Moore. By 1999, Foster had backed out of Hannibal. One report suggested that she wanted too much money, while others claim that Jodie disagreed with her character's direction in the sequel. Either way, Julianne Moore was the new Clarice.

Moore, who became an Oscar winner herself, no doubt had the acting chops. She just didn't have the same chemistry with Hopkins that Foster did, leaving fans underwhelmed by the recasting.