Hannibal

Hannibal

Year: 2001

Runtime: 131 min

Language: English

Director: Ridley Scott

Budget: $87M

ThrillerCrime

FBI Agent Clarice Starling is drawn back into a terrifying ordeal when the brilliant and manipulative Hannibal Lecter escapes from custody and resurfaces in Italy. Ten years after their previous encounter, Starling must confront her own past while attempting to understand Lecter's motives and stop his deadly new scheme, facing a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a chillingly intelligent adversary.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Hannibal yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Hannibal (2001)

Trace every key event in Hannibal (2001) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Barney and Verger's Meeting

The film opens a decade after the events of 'The Silence of the Lambs' with Barney, a caregiver for Dr. Hannibal Lecter, meeting Mason Verger. Barney presents Verger with Lecter's infamous leather restraining mask for $250,000, revealing the dark history tied to it.

2

Starling's Raid

FBI agent Clarice Starling is in Washington D.C. leading an operation to raid an HIV-positive drug dealer named Evelda Drumgo. The operation goes awry, resulting in a violent shootout that leaves several dead, including agents and gang members.

Washington D.C.
3

Starling's Fallout

In the aftermath of the botched raid, Starling faces scrutiny and disrepute, particularly from Justice Department official Paul Krendler. The incident rekindles interest in her previous connections with Hannibal Lecter, complicating her career further.

4

Verger's Manipulation

Mason Verger, seeking revenge on Lecter for a past encounter, manipulates events to have Starling assigned to the case once more. He hopes to use her to lure Lecter out of hiding, creating a twisted game of cat and mouse.

5

Verger's Proposal

Verger invites Starling to his estate under the guise of providing new intel about Lecter. During this meeting, he reveals the disturbing connection between himself and Lecter, disclosing Lecter had once been his therapist during his trial.

Verger's Estate
6

Verger's Revenge Scheme

From his estate, Verger plots an elaborate scheme to capture Lecter alive as part of his revenge plan. He enlists the help of his doctor, Cordell, demonstrating his cold and calculated approach to achieving satisfaction for past grievances.

Verger's Estate
7

Pazzi's Hunt for Lecter

In Florence, Chief Inspector Rinaldo Pazzi is hot on the trail of Dr. Hannibal Lecter, who is masquerading as a librarian. Pazzi's investigation leads him to confront Lecter, unaware of the danger he invites.

Florence
8

Confrontation with Pazzi

Pazzi's pursuit of Lecter intensifies, employing various tactics to uncover his whereabouts. However, Lecter's cunning nature leads to a shocking confrontation where he gruesomely dispatches Pazzi, echoing the fate that befell one of Pazzi's ancestors.

9

Starling's Race Against Time

As Verger's plans unfold, he attempts to lure Lecter into a trap with his men. In response, Starling embarks on a harrowing rescue mission to save Lecter from Verger's deadly intentions, emphasizing her determination and bravery.

Verger's Estate
10

Showdown at Verger's Estate

In a tense showdown, Starling fights to prevent Lecter from becoming prey to Verger's ferocious boars. In a twist of fate, Lecter turns the tables on Verger, ensuring he meets a grim end as part of his sinister revenge scheme.

Verger's Estate
11

The Banquet

In a shocking climax, Lecter prepares a banquet for Krendler, drugging him and revealing his true nature by serving him his own brain. This act epitomizes Lecter's chilling psychopathy and the film's exploration of morality.

12

Starling's Dilemma

As the narrative draws to a close, Starling grapples with horror and disbelief over Lecter's actions. Her ensuing isolation raises questions about her future and the psychological toll of her intertwined fate with Lecter.

13

Lecter's Final Escape

In the film's unsettling conclusion, Lecter manages to escape once more, leaving Starling to confront the chaotic aftermath. His departure emphasizes the lasting impact of his horrors and the moral chaos surrounding their relationship.

Flight
14

Haunting Encounter

The final scenes portray Lecter onboard a flight engaging with an innocent child. This chilling moment underscores the sinister implications of Lecter's actions and leaves a lingering sense of dread in the audience.

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 01:04

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Unlock the Full Story of Hannibal

Don't stop at just watching — explore Hannibal in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Hannibal is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Hannibal Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Hannibal, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Hannibal Summary

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Hannibal Spoiler-Free Summary

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