Red Dragon

Red Dragon is a 2002 American psychological horror thriller film directed by Brett Ratner and written by Ted Tally.

Red Dragon is a 2002 American psychological horror thriller film directed by Brett Ratner and written by Ted Tally. Based on Thomas Harris's 1981 novel of the same name, it serves as a prequel to The Silence of the Lambs and Hannibal. The film is the second screen adaptation of the novel, following Manhunter (1986).

Plot and premise

The film centres on former FBI profiler Will Graham, who is drawn back into a serial-killer investigation. To help identify the killer, known as the Tooth Fairy, he consults Hannibal Lecter, whose earlier capture Graham helped secure.

Production

Red Dragon was directed by Brett Ratner from a screenplay by Ted Tally, adapting Thomas Harris's 1981 novel. It was produced as a new screen version of the story after the success of The Silence of the Lambs and Hannibal.

Place in the Hannibal Lecter series

The film is set before the events of The Silence of the Lambs and Hannibal, making it a narrative prequel. It is also the second adaptation of the source novel, following Manhunter (1986).

Cast

The film stars Edward Norton as Will Graham, Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter, and Ralph Fiennes as Francis Dolarhyde. Other cast members include Emily Watson, Harvey Keitel, Mary-Louise Parker, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Anthony Hopkins reprises his role as Hannibal Lecter in the film.