Movie : Manhunter

A retired FBI profiler with physical and emotional scars is drawn back to help catch a serial killer. He wants to help and keep his distance at the same time. But that is not how it works. He’s pulled into the case full force because there is no half measures in his methods. He becomes obsessed or maybe even possessed by the killers mindset. He visits a serial killer that he helped put in prison to try and catch any kind of edge he can get. He methodically works his way towards catching and stopping the killer but is he going to make it in time before more people die? Or he has another breakdown.

I went to see this film because it was based on a book I read ‘The Red Dragon’ by Thomas Harris. I loved the book and I loved the film. It has tons of style and atmosphere courtesy of Michael Mann (maybe a little Kubrick influence). He made a very very good film that had my interest and senses stimulated. From his camera work, pace, environment, tone. His use of music (great soundtrack)really enhanced the film for me. It helped tell his story. I found  that it was perfect for what he envisioned and heard.

None of the actors were known to me at the time and they are all well cast. Joan Allen, Tom Noonan are perfect in their roles. William Pederson as the profiler is real solid and brings a subtle touch that the role required. You feel his wheels turning as he gets draw deeper into the circumstances. But the kicker as far as the performances go is Brian Cox. He is out and out absolutely fantastic. I remember thinking when watching this film and when he appears on screen that I was no longer watching a film actor but a living breathing highly intelligent psychopath. A great film moment for CB.

I remember when I saw this for the first time that I was seeing a very good and a very different film. I have seen it various times since and still enjoy it. If you want a real different film experience visual, a thriller, a slow burn with an explosive climax and so much sensory stimulation check out ‘Manhunter’. A CB favorite. Oh yeah it spawned a few other remakes etc but this is the one for me. It has aged well.

“You want the scent? Smell yourself”