Well, if you loved the first one (I did) you'll be angry at this movie for even existing. Forget the highly-publicized cast changes (Julianne Moore is just fine as Clarice Starling), the movie is a real disappointment compared to the original. First of all, the story removes Hannibal Lecter from the psycho-hospital from 'Silence' and that proves to be a major setback, because, as a result, the film feels like a standard serial killer on the loose movie. Second of all, the dynamic that existed between Dr. Lecter and Agent Starling in 'Lambs' is all but lost this time around, the two characters don't even meet face-to-face until about the final 15 minutes. Third of all, Hopkins puts none of the oomph into Hannibal that fed the character last time around. It almost feels like he just showed up for the paycheck. He lacks the spark and the electricity that made the first film so memorably terrifying.
As for the highly-touted gore: yes, it is gory and definitely not for the squeamish. Deaths are violent and bloody, not a movie to take your Mom to, unless she likes gruesome death scenes (mine does not!!)
All in all, very disappointing. Should they make any more sequels (which, no doubt, they will), I wouldn't be surprised if we see Hannibal Lecter turn into the next Freddy or Jason Voorhees.
As for the highly-touted gore: yes, it is gory and definitely not for the squeamish. Deaths are violent and bloody, not a movie to take your Mom to, unless she likes gruesome death scenes (mine does not!!)
All in all, very disappointing. Should they make any more sequels (which, no doubt, they will), I wouldn't be surprised if we see Hannibal Lecter turn into the next Freddy or Jason Voorhees.