Apéritif

So I never really had an interest in watching this. Not because I don't find a backstory of Hannibal Lector interesting, definitely not that. But, regular network dramas just aren't good enough these days. But I've already heard from several people how great it was, so I gave it a chance. Definitely atmospheric, very well shot, very carefully edited and precisely paced, with the right balance in tone and both Dancy and Mikkelsen have been fantastic so far. Network dramas do tend to be more self-contained than cable dramas, so I kinda expected this to be. In a way it's a crime procedural, but definitely not like any other on TV. Episode 2, while not as strong as the pilot, still confirmed that this show is definitely to look out for.

Now, the problem is this- this is NBC, and this show doesn't seem like one that will stick with viewers from these regular networks. That's also been the problem with network TV the last several years. So many dramas get cancelled so soon, and because this definitely doesn't feel dumbed-down at all, I fear it won't find the right audience. I wish a cable network had picked it up. But so far, definitely really good.

Good start and good performances from all of the leads. If your looking for a psychological thriller check this out. I hope that they will show Red Dragon in some way.

This was an artistic, delicious start to this show, which I always felt was underrated as not enough are watching it or talking about it!

The introduction to the characters were great, as well as the premise! There is a lot happening and a lot to take in at first, but it never feels to much! By the end, you know exactly what you need to know!

Hugh Dancy is great as Will, with abbilities that will make this show very interesting moving forward!

Mads Mikkelsen absolutely nails it as Hannibal! His Chemistry with Dancy is what carries the show for me! Hannibal is in control from the start and you never quite know what to expect from him when he serves you food..

I love the artistic style of the show! It is no stranger to gore and disturbing scenes, amd it is always presented in a hauntimg, yet captivating way!

Amazing direction and camera work! This show has its unique style that really makes you feel like you watch something by Brian Fuller, and not a studie!

That is how do an excellent precedural episode. We have a true mistery, a lot of blood, grey characters and a good final.

Hannibal is more of a "fill in the gaps" for the Hannibal series. We saw Will Graham in Manhunter and its remake Red Dragon. Whilst The Silence of The Lambs saw Hannibal's character on an all time high, and a rather degraded sequel as "Hannibal (2001)" and a prelude as "Hannibal Rising". So this series falls somewhere between "Hannibal Rising" and "Manhunter/Red Dragon". That means it isn't a 'messing with the plot' remake, but a gripping and excellent take on our favorite Cannibal.

Will Graham (not yet retired) finds himself investigating psychopath murders (to his dismay), and looks avoid those as much possible. His eccentric ability to empathize with the killers finds him recruited by a senior FBI Officer Jack Crawford, who is our very own Morpheus (A pleasant surprise to me!). Jack seeing Graham's discomfort for his work appoints Dr. Lector to team up with him to release some of his stress. But Hannibal the Cannibal has separate plans for his new found friend.

An Apéritif for a pilot is rather more about Will Graham than Hannibal or any crime investigation. It develops a little explored character into a gem. Coming to the performances, Dancy fits in a young Graham's shoes perfectly, where as I do miss Hopkins's intense and malicious glare. Don't take me wrong! I doesn't mean Mads was bad, he was extremely convincing. Now how can I explain this? Its like some one else playing Harry Potter, even if does play it better, he won't just fit in. Anyways I do hope we get to see Hopkins later in the series. Lawrence is average.

The only problem I saw was the pace. The story progressed way too fast than a healthy pace. But I have to hand it to the writer director for not sacrificing character development for pace. Only thing sacrificed was detailing. I think its understandable as the series is more of a psychological drama thriller than a crime investigation drama. ANd just the right amount of fear topped with thrill.

Direction: Great. Pretty surprising from Twilight's director.

Story/Screenplay: Refreshing, thrilling and gripping.

Acting: Dancy the best, Mads awesome. Lawrence Average.

Music: Engaging, ear friendly and fitting.

Overall a good start to an interesting series. I hope it lasts like this and doesn't lose content wise in times to come.