Written by Allie Plunk
LEAP students took a Wednesday night trip to Cinemark in the Woodlands for the 35th anniversary screening of The Silence of the Lambs! Arriving around thirty minutes early, we had more than enough time to load up on popcorn, candy, and sodas before heading into the theater.
Once we were seated, the film began with an opening from legendary film critic and historian, Leonard Maltin, who explained some of the historical and cultural significance of the film, including its status as one of three films to win the “Big Five” Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Based on Thomas Harris’ 1988 novel of the same name, The Silence of the Lambs is a staple in American film that inspired an infatuation with the character of a dignified serial cannibal named Hannibal Lector, resulting in numerous spinoff series and prequel films.
The film follows young FBI trainee Clarisse Starling (Jodie Foster) as she interviews Hannibal Lector (Anthony Hopkins) with the hopes that he might provide insight into the mind of a serial killer. On the rise is a man by the name of Buffalo Bill (Ted Levine), who skins his victims after he kidnaps and kills them, mysteriously keeping them alive for three days. Starling has the sinking feeling that Hannibal Lector knows more about the killings than he is letting on, and must navigate his psychological manipulations and lies to get to the truth.
Though a clear psychological thriller/horror, we were all able to find humor in some of our favorite parts, especially in Hannibal’s witty dialogue. Several of us had never seen the film before, though it is one of my favorite movies of all time! On the way home, we all agreed that it was an evening well spent.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 