Watch Hannibal

Hannibal is a psychological thriller drama television show produced by NBC that aired between 2013-2015. It's a prequel to the novel Red Dragon by Thomas Harris and features the iconic character Hannibal Lecter, the brilliant psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer.

The show follows the brilliant FBI criminal profiler, Will Graham (Hugh Dancy), who has a unique ability to empathize with serial killers and recreate their thought processes in his mind. However, his work takes a toll on his mental health, and he starts to lose himself in the twisted minds of the criminals he profiles. To help him cope, he seeks help from the renowned psychiatrist, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen), who becomes his friend, confidant, and mentor.

As the story progresses, Graham and Lecter become embroiled in a twisted and dangerous game of cat and mouse. They both have their secrets, and their relationship takes a dark turn as their true intentions are revealed. Alongside them is a cast of compelling and intricate characters, including Graham's boss at the FBI, Jack Crawford (Laurence Fishburne), his colleague and eventual love interest, Dr. Alana Bloom (Caroline Dhavernas), Beverly Katz (Hettienne Park), and the enigmatic and mysterious Bedelia Du Maurier (Gillian Anderson).

The show is a visually stunning and artistically stylized work of art, with graphic violence and complex characters at its core. The performances of its main cast are nothing short of extraordinary, with Hugh Dancy's portrayal of Will Graham being particularly noteworthy. He brings an incredible amount of depth and vulnerability to the character, and his struggles with his mental health are a central theme throughout the show.

Mads Mikkelsen's take on Hannibal Lecter is both menacing and mesmerizing. His performance is chilling and nuanced, bringing a sense of elegance and charm to the character that makes it difficult not to root for him, even as you're horrified by his actions.

The supporting cast is equally brilliant, with Caroline Dhavernas standing out as Alana Bloom, who provides a sense of empathy and compassion to balance out the show's darker aspects. Laurence Fishburne brings a commanding presence to the show, playing the tough but caring boss who genuinely cares about his team.

One of the standout features of Hannibal is its stunning cinematography, which is both haunting and beautiful. The show's use of classical music, art, and food creates a sense of elegance and refinement that juxtaposes disturbingly with its gruesome murder scenes.

Hannibal is not a show for the faint of heart. It's a dark and twisted series that explores the deepest depths of the human psyche. The show is filled with shocking twists and turns, and its complex characters and intricate storytelling will keep viewers glued to their screens.

Overall, Hannibal is a masterful piece of television that blends artistry, horror, and psychological thriller genres into a compelling and unforgettable viewing experience. It's no surprise that it has garnered a cult following since its original airing and remains one of the most talked-about shows in recent years.

Hannibal is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (39 episodes). The series first aired on April 4, 2013.

Where to Watch Hannibal