OK, let's admit it - we're all a little disappointed. After waiting for a VERY long time for the sequel in great suspense and intrigue, the sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat wait (and endless publicity) has finally been proved to be the most exciting thing about it. Ummmm....
So. We are went to the cinema and were, whether we choose to admit to it or not, really quite excited about seeing Mr. Hannibal Lecture in action once again. The film begins with a action-packed reminder of our leading character, Clarise Starling. Quite important considering that our actress has changed. We see that her life, and career, is in turmoil, after a couple of fudged FBI operations. In her desperation, her thoughts wander to the escaped cannibal - and here the story really begins.
At the end of the last film, we see that Hannibal has escaped. We are now told that the place he is hiding is Florence, his beloved retreat whilst in prison. Don't ask how he managed to go unseen for years and years, whilst still occupying a place on America's Most - Wanted. It says a lot for the Italian Police Force. The Americans, once again, takingthe p**s out of anyone that doesn't fall into their nationality.
So, predictably, Clarise launches all her efforts into catching the man-eater in order to save her career. I'll leave the rest for you to imagine. The plot is not exactly exciting and disappointed an expectant audience greatly.
We see a lot more blood and gore in the sequel - one reason why our original Clarise turned down the role this time. Its all a bit unbelievable once we get to the end, but it makes nice horror of an original psychological thriller. Its funny how the directors can change the genre when things just aren't working...