I’m no longer simply a man; I started as one, but now I am evolving into something more, and you will see this transformation. Red Dragon is adapted from the novel by Thomas Harris, directed by Brett Ratner, and written by Ted Tally. The cast includes Edward Norton, Anthony Hopkins, Ralph Fiennes, Emily Watson, Harvey Keitel, Mary-Louise Parker, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. Dante Spinotti handled the cinematography, with a score by Danny Elfman. The film serves as a prequel to the very successful Silence of the Lambs. This same story had previously been filmed as Manhunter in 1986 under Michael Mann’s direction. The signs weren't particularly encouraging for Red Dragon; the year before had seen Ridley Scott attempt a sequel to Silence Of The Lambs, Hannibal, with disappointing results. The director here is known for films like Rush Hour 1 & 2, and Mann's version of the story has become a grainy and somewhat irritating cult classic. It’s good news then that, even though it doesn’t quite reach the level of "Lambs," it proves to be an enjoyable film that genuinely manages to create unease. First, one must put aside any expectations related to Hannibal Lecter to appreciate the movie on its own merits. Lecter (Hopkins seems to be having a good time but isn't putting his all into it) is a supporting character. He’s important, certainly, but secondary to Edward Norton’s troubled yet talented FBI agent Will Graham and Ralph Fiennes’ disturbed serial killer Francis Dolarhyde (also known as The Tooth Fairy). At its heart, Red Dragon is a compelling detective story, with Ratner and Tally wisely utilizing the elements that made Harris' novel so captivating. They have added their own touches—the pre-credit sequence involving Lecter & Graham sets things up perfectly—but it remains a faithful adaptation of a gripping and chilling narrative. The filmmakers have populated the film with strong performers. Norton portrays Graham in a restrained manner, a character unable to resist the work that threatens his family; he’s easy to sympathize with as problems begin to arise. Fiennes also avoids going over the top, appearing in excellent physical condition and possessing piercing blue eyes, which conveys menace without resorting to cartoonish behavior. Phillip Seymour Hoffman was an obvious choice for a slimy reporter because he plays such roles so well, while Harvey Keitel, though not needing to stretch himself, provides a solid performance as Jack Crawford. However, the standout performance, and one that hasn’t received enough attention, comes from Emily Watson as Reba. With Reba serving as both a romantic interest and a source of redemption for Dolarhyde's split personality, Watson takes on a difficult role and succeeds with a moving portrayal featuring just the right amounts of spirit, sadness, and vulnerability. It is perhaps too polished to be truly terrifying; Ratner struggles to give the film an atmospheric feel that matches the darkness at its core. Nevertheless, it fulfills the promise made by that opening segment and delivers on Harris' well-crafted procedural story. 7/10

Source on TMDB