Hannibal (TV series)

Hannibal TV logo (cropped)

Hannibal is an American psychological horror-thriller television series developed by Bryan Fuller for NBC. The series is based on characters and elements appearing in the novel Red Dragon by Thomas Harris. The series focuses on the budding relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a forensic psychiatrist destined to become Graham's most cunning enemy and, at the same time, the only person who can understand him.

Plot

The series explores the early relationship between the renowned psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter and his patient, a young FBI criminal profiler named Will Graham, who is haunted by his ability to empathize with serial killers. Graham's unique way of thinking gives him the ability to assume the perspective of the killers he hunts, but it also takes a toll on his psyche. Dr. Lecter, who is secretly a cannibalistic serial killer, manipulates Graham and the FBI, all while indulging in his own dark desires.

Cast and Characters

• Mads Mikkelsen as Dr. Hannibal Lecter
• Hugh Dancy as Will Graham
• Caroline Dhavernas as Dr. Alana Bloom
• Laurence Fishburne as Jack Crawford
• Hettienne Park as Beverly Katz
• Gillian Anderson as Dr. Bedelia Du Maurier

Production

The series was developed by Bryan Fuller, who also served as the showrunner. The show was produced by Dino De Laurentiis Company and Gaumont International Television. The series premiered on April 4, 2013, and concluded on August 29, 2015, after three seasons.

Reception

Hannibal received critical acclaim, particularly for its visual style, acting, and writing. Mads Mikkelsen's portrayal of Hannibal Lecter was especially praised, as was Hugh Dancy's performance as Will Graham. Despite its critical success, the series struggled with low viewership ratings, leading to its cancellation after three seasons.

Episodes

Hannibal consists of three seasons, with a total of 39 episodes. Each season adapts elements from the novels by Thomas Harris, with the third season incorporating material from Red Dragon and Hannibal.

Themes

The series delves into themes of identity, morality, and the nature of evil. It explores the psychological manipulation and the complex relationship between Hannibal Lecter and Will Graham, blurring the lines between hunter and hunted.

Awards and Nominations

Hannibal received numerous awards and nominations, including Saturn Awards and Critics' Choice Television Awards. The series was particularly noted for its artistic achievements in cinematography and production design.

Legacy

Despite its short run, Hannibal has developed a cult following and is often cited as one of the best horror television series of all time. Its influence can be seen in subsequent psychological horror and thriller series.

See Also

• Red Dragon (novel)
• Hannibal Lecter (franchise)
• Thomas Harris
• Psychological horror
• Thriller television series