Manhunter actor Brian Cox says his version of Dr. Hannibal Lecter is “completely different” from Anthony Hopkins’ interpretation
The films “Manhunter” and “The Silence of the Lambs” both feature Thomas Harris’ notorious psychiatrist turned murderer: Dr. Hannibal Lecter.
In a recent interview, Brian Cox said that his version of Dr. Hannibal Lecter in “Manhunter” was more subtle and mysterious than Anthony Hopkins’ interpretation in “The Silence of the Lambs.”
The 79-year-old actor believes that the two interpretations are “two completely different types of performances”.
Cox also explained that Thomas Harris’ character is scariest when he comes across as socially acceptable to the audience.
When Brian Cox accepted the role of Dr. Hannibal Lecter in 1986’s “Manhunter,” he had no idea that the character would later become one of the most iconic villains in film history.
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Several years later, in 1991, Anthony Hopkins came up with his own interpretation of Thomas Harris’ infamous character in “The Silence of the Lambs”.
Looking back on the differences, Cox recently told Woman’s World how he believes the two portrayals were “two completely different types of achievements.”
“When I made it, it was a little film – a great film to make with a fantastic director,” the 79-year-old Scottish actor told the magazine. “That’s what was cool about the project. Tony did his version, and it’s really a different character, a different interpretation. It’s a completely different mood, the kind of gothic horror that Jonathan Demme created.
Based on this distinction, Cox explained that his version of Lecter was shaped by what the audience does not get to see. Instead of constructing an extensive backstory, he focused on the enigmatic sides of the character.
“He was very much a kind of mysterious man,” Cox said, noting that Lecter’s power came from this ambiguity and lack of a clearly defined past—except for what could have existed between him and FBI profiler Will Graham.
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His successor also approached the role with the belief that true fear comes from recognizability, not exaggeration.
“It’s so easy to play people as scary on the outside… But what’s really frightening about some is how acceptable they are,” he explained.
Cox added that violent moments should feel abrupt and impactful, emphasizing that when Lecter attacks, “it happens very quickly … In those moments, he is very dangerous, but most of the time he has to appear acceptable in society at large.”
Looking back, Cox is still amazed by the film’s legacy and his own role in it. What started out as just an ordinary job gradually developed into a dedicated following.
“It’s become a franchise now, and I don’t know if I’ve ever wanted to be a part of a franchise,” Cox told Woman’s World. “I’m an actor. I like to play different roles, and I don’t think I would like to be stuck in the role of Hannibal Lecter forever. That said, the film has taken on a life of its own, and that’s fine with me.
