HORROR DVD/BLU-RAY REVIEWS

An FBI specialist tracks a serial killer who appears to select his victims at random.

Please note: This isn't a "new" review, as these discs are exact double-dips of the Hannibal Lecter Collection, which I reviewed awhile back.

I've always wanted to see this movie but this viewing was actually my first time, and let me tell you I enjoyed it. Despite the argument that this film shouldn't be included in the collection, it is definitely worth watching and is easily a great little companion piece to the box set. If you've seen Red Dragon, it's nothing but a slick rip-off of this film (although it could be argued that they're both novel adaptations).

To beef up my original review, I'd like to add that this film has great cinematography. When you get to check out the beautiful manipulations of light and color, you'll be impressed. This is combined with some atmospheric locations and set design that help suck you into the film's story. I don't think there's a lot of argument that Silence of the Lambs is a superior film, but one could undoubtedly argue that this is better than Red Dragon, the slicker take on the story. I just felt that this film was colder and meaner than Red Dragon which always came off super light to me for some reason.

Michael Mann directed this one, and it seems to show because this one isn't quite as much of a Lecter flick as it is a more of a cops and robbers film. Brian Cox does a good job with his interpretation of Lecter (although it's Lecktor in this one), and the style seems to work for the script. The best marks go to Tom Noonan, whose portrayal of Dollarhyde is both chilling and realistic, and Joan Allen's Reba McClane, the blind love interest. Noonan is easily the standout here, as his character is a psychopath, struggling for a last grasp at a normal life (and you never really find out what exactly makes him do what he does, which adds to the intrigue). You'll undoubtedly alternate between pity and fear with his character.  My only real complaint is William Petersen's portrayal of Will Graham (coming off a bit too broad and too wooden for my tastes) and the awful 80's Miami Vice score.  Seriously, this soundtrack has not aged well.

Video comes in 1.85:1 Non-Anamorphic (1080p) widescreen, and admittedly looks pretty okay, but this disc certainly isn't one you'd slide in to show off your new TV setup.

Audio features DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio, and again, sounds fairly clear but remains relatively unimpressive.

Not a thing.

Coming off more as a thriller than true horror, Manhunter is still a well made film. Sure, its dated but sports some awesome performances (especially Noonan) and some great cinematography.