The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

New episode out now! We revisit the world of Thomas Harris with the 1991 film The Silence of the Lambs. We get into the dynamics of Clarice and Hannibal and how their relationship is portrayed, commending both actors for their work, but wish we saw more of Clarice’s internal journey. We admire the cinematography and sets, with the camera’s POV of Clarice being both compelling and unnerving, and talk about the realities of the cells that were created to hold Hannibal. We again discuss how the depiction of Buffalo Bill explores fear mongering about trans people but is not a representation of actual trans people, think that Hannibal almost evolved into a caricature through pop culture, debate the genre of this film, and still hate Chilton. We touch on the rise of mainstream true crime, wonder if the growing prevalence of violence in media may explain how we responded differently to the film than our parents, and learn about various inspirations Anthony Hopkins used for his portrayal. Katy acted heroically by putting a package on the porch, Carrie paid close attention to details in Baldur’s Gate 3, Maddy lives out a meme in real life, and Mack shares a fun fact about a Buzz Lightyear toy. We also get disappointed by the lack of flaying, wonder if bug enthusiasts can be endearing, and have a very long discussion about where Hannibal kept the pen. Listen to hear more about cornfields, Emperor Palpatine, bee unions, bald eagle noises, and practical advice to keep you out of the ER. Enjoy!

TW: Serial killers, body mutilation, cannibalism, gender reaffirming surgery, outdated transgender terminology, misrepresentation of the transgender experience, fear mongering about trans people, misogyny, law enforcement power dynamics, mental institutions, insects

Show Notes:

• CBS did produce a show about Clarice Starling, called Clarice. It ran for one season in 2021; there was an attempt to move to Paramount+ for a second season but it didn't happen.
• Katy meant she gets Jodie Foster confused with Holly Hunter, not Helen Hunt. She gets Holly Hunter confused with Helen Hunt. She does NOT get Jodie Foster confused with Helen Hunt.