Review of Manhunter (1986) by Nate W — 14 Jul 2009
Michael Mann's tense thriller marks the first cinematic appearance of Hannibal Lecktor, later made famous by Anthony Hopkins. But Lecktor's presence in "Manhunter" is minimal, and the obvious standout is William Petersen as a specialist who immerses himself in the criminal mind in order to help track down a serial killer.
It's a role that requires confidence, especially when it forces him to dive into some clumsily written not-so-internal monologues, but Petersen delivers with bold self-assurance. It's an intelligent and unnerving film that helped pave the way for dozens of similar efforts in later years, including the genre milestone "The Silence of the Lambs".
This review of Manhunter (1986) was written by Nate W on 14 Jul 2009.
Manhunter has generally received positive reviews.
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