Red Dragon

Dr. Hannibal Lecter hosts a dinner party at his Baltimore townhouse. The conversation revolves around the disappearance of a local musician, with Lecter serving a mysterious meal that raises the curiosity of his guests.

After dinner, Will Graham visits Lecter to discuss the psychological profile of a local serial killer. During their session, Graham uncovers disturbing evidence that implicates Lecter in the killings, hinting at the sinister nature hidden beneath Lecter's charm.

In a shocking turn, Lecter violently attacks Graham, nearly killing him in the process. Graham manages to subdue Lecter, leading to his arrest and subsequent life imprisonment in a mental institution.

Traumatized by his experience with Lecter, Graham decides to retire from the FBI. He struggles with the psychological aftermath of his encounter, leaving behind active duty to seek a simpler life.

Years later, a new serial killer nicknamed the Tooth Fairy emerges, terrorizing families during full moons. This reignites the urgency in the FBI to track down the killer before he strikes again.

Special Agent Jack Crawford reaches out to Graham for assistance in capturing the Tooth Fairy, recognizing Graham's unique insight into the mind of killers. Graham hesitantly agrees, feeling the weight of responsibility.

While revising the case materials, Graham realizes that his previous successes came with Lecter's counsel. To capture the Tooth Fairy, he concludes that he needs to consult Lecter again, despite the risks involved.

The Tooth Fairy is identified as Francis Dolarhyde, a deeply disturbed man fueled by childhood traumas. His violent urges are intertwined with an obsession with Lecter, calling himself 'The Great Red Dragon' inspired by a painting.

Dolarhyde becomes infatuated with Reba McClane, a blind co-worker, complicating his murderous tendencies. He struggles to reconcile his love for her with the violent instincts imposed by his psychosis, symbolized by the Red Dragon.

As the investigation unfolds, Dolarhyde kidnaps tabloid reporter Freddy Lounds, responding to Graham's derogatory comments. He tortures Lounds into recanting his words, showcasing his volatile nature and desire for control.

Graham learns about the risky correspondence between Lecter and Dolarhyde, which puts his family in danger. Consequently, Molly and their son Josh are evacuated to a safe house to protect them from potential harm.

Dolarhyde confronts his fears and violent impulses during a night at Reba's. In a disturbing moment, he nearly succumbs to the Red Dragon's demands, contemplating suicide rather than letting the monster take control.

Graham continues to piece together clues, linking the killer to the video editing company. Tracking Dolarhyde’s movements leads to a breakthrough when the manager identifies him, intensifying the hunt.

In a frenzied finale, Dolarhyde kills Reba's acquaintance out of jealousy and abducts her. Set on a violent path, he prepares to eliminate Reba to prevent her from being taken by the Red Dragon.

The climax unfolds at Graham's home, where he confronts Dolarhyde to protect his family. In a fierce struggle, both men sustain injuries, culminating in Molly shooting Dolarhyde, effectively ending the threat.