Review of Manhunter (1986) by April P — 28 Feb 2008

I honestly preferred the remake. This version of the movie seems to explore different themes and ideas and work more like a psychological study than anything else. It's held back by some stiff acting and dialogue, though.

Brian Cox's Lecktor is barely in the movie at all. Red Dragon on the other hand was scary and tense as hell. It may just depend on which movie you see first. For my money, I'll take the super creepy set design and tension of the remake over the original's William Peterson, Michael Mann camera filters, and 80's camp soundtrack.

I've got to give credit to Tom Noonan. His Tooth Fairy is not as frightening as Fiennes performance, but he's sure a lot more interesting. Fiennes was more subtle though. Noonan practically has "serial killer" written on his forehead.

It's not essential, but it's worth seeing if you're a fan of the material.