Hannibal

:

Season 1
  • Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Apr 4, 2013
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 1055 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 957 out of 1055
  2. Mixed: 37 out of 1055
  3. Negative: 61 out of 1055
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User Reviews

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  1. JLuis_001
    May 12, 2018
    9
    It was always recommended to me, I never had the opportunity to watch it, I'm incredibly overwhelmed with guilt. This is one of the best series I've seen in years and in my life. Dark, violent, psychological and elegant.

    Great performances, great technical values, great story, great narrative. Spectacular.
  2. DKStrohl
    Aug 1, 2018
    9
    I just re-watched all 3 seasons for first time since its initial airing. It's still one of the most interesting and inventive shows I have ever seen on television, cable or otherwise. It really hits it's stride at the end of season 1. Season 2 and 3 are just perfect. WATCH THIS NOW.
  3. luke100
    Jan 11, 2018
    9
    This goes for the entire show: it's just amazing. I usually find it difficult to get into crime stories, but Will Graham is way too compelling of a character to not get sucked into this world, and so is the entire supporting cast. And obviously Mads Mikkelsen as Hannibal is perfect. Hannibal's and Will's chemistry works incredibly well and the dynamics of their relationship are really atThis goes for the entire show: it's just amazing. I usually find it difficult to get into crime stories, but Will Graham is way too compelling of a character to not get sucked into this world, and so is the entire supporting cast. And obviously Mads Mikkelsen as Hannibal is perfect. Hannibal's and Will's chemistry works incredibly well and the dynamics of their relationship are really at the heart of all three seasons. Admittedly, some find parts of season 3 a it boring - so did I, but not only do I see a point in them after some thinking, but also the second part, meaning the adaptation of the Red Dragon, more than makes up for it. I always recommend this show to anyone I meet.… Expand
  4. tdkDallas
    Jul 28, 2013
    8
    Incredible show that surprised the heck out of me. Before watching it I was very skeptical and now I am not sure how it isn't more popular. Hard to believe it's on NBC.
  5. Poirot
    Sep 6, 2013
    8
    This shows lives up to the first two films and is superior to the film of the same name. Mads Mikkelsen plays a very believable Hannibal. The only way you will not like it is if you are so tied to Anthony Hopkins that you can not see past that. Hugh Dancy is good as the police officer drafted by the FBI. The only problem with this shows is the muddled writing. Part of this was becauseThis shows lives up to the first two films and is superior to the film of the same name. Mads Mikkelsen plays a very believable Hannibal. The only way you will not like it is if you are so tied to Anthony Hopkins that you can not see past that. Hugh Dancy is good as the police officer drafted by the FBI. The only problem with this shows is the muddled writing. Part of this was because the main FBI officer (Dancy) has mental issues, but it goes beyond that and this needs to be worked on before the second season. I would recommend more crisp writing somewhat like a meal that Hannibal prepares.… Expand
  6. sergiomach5
    Jun 1, 2013
    8
    As a fan of The other films starring Will Graham (Re Dragon and Manhunter) the TV series was of interest to me. I love how they have created Will as a cop who can barely handle his thoughts as a killer, and how he can still do his best to solve the crimes at hand. Having Hugh Dancy is surprisingly welcome since he seems less likely to have a sick mind the same way Edward norton or WilliamAs a fan of The other films starring Will Graham (Re Dragon and Manhunter) the TV series was of interest to me. I love how they have created Will as a cop who can barely handle his thoughts as a killer, and how he can still do his best to solve the crimes at hand. Having Hugh Dancy is surprisingly welcome since he seems less likely to have a sick mind the same way Edward norton or William Peterson did, yet portrays it very well.
    Mads Mikkelsen makes for a much different Hannibal than that of the iconic Hopkins, and can show even subtle touches as to how the character is thinking, be it in his quarters or when viewing a crime scene.
    The crime scenes are downright disturbing and having Will bring the scene to life adds to the freakiness. The third episode in particular had gruesome imagery, as well as some pyschological scares in what happened to some of the victims of the first episodes killer. Its truly inventive and leaves a lasting impression to the viewer.
    I am looking forward to how the rest of the season turns out, but I am hooked and cannot wait to see where the series goes next.    … Expand
  7. The_Scrutiny
    Aug 27, 2014
    8
    This is a show you simply cannot miss. Expect great acting from almost every cast member, spectacular visuals, and memorable dialogue. That being said, be prepared for a painfully formulaic first half of the first season. It's not bad or boring; the episode structure is just very evident pretty soon. But if you can get past that, the second half shows more promise with an interesting plotThis is a show you simply cannot miss. Expect great acting from almost every cast member, spectacular visuals, and memorable dialogue. That being said, be prepared for a painfully formulaic first half of the first season. It's not bad or boring; the episode structure is just very evident pretty soon. But if you can get past that, the second half shows more promise with an interesting plot arc. Then get ready for some of the finest television around with the Season 2, because that's where it's all at!… Expand
  8. ViniciusPaiva
    May 10, 2015
    8
    The cast is stellar, cinematography is superb. But still, the show often falls flat as a procedural one. The week's killer usually are too unrealistic or not interesting enough. I keep thinking that the show would have been much better if it didn't feel the need to show us the case of the week. Instead, I'd rather see them focusing on the character's development. Or have a big serialThe cast is stellar, cinematography is superb. But still, the show often falls flat as a procedural one. The week's killer usually are too unrealistic or not interesting enough. I keep thinking that the show would have been much better if it didn't feel the need to show us the case of the week. Instead, I'd rather see them focusing on the character's development. Or have a big serial killer per season.… Expand
  9. MarkJames
    Apr 26, 2013
    8
    I don't like that often the episodes are about about a "killer of the week" that will not be referred to again. I like the Abigale Hobbs story. The episode where she killed the boy had me spellbound. I don't like self contained episodes.
  10. NBAluke579
    Sep 1, 2013
    8
    Incredible first season show. An unexpected surprise by all accounts. The show is gorgeous, and has amazing visuals. The acting is very strong, and the plot is thick with intrigue and suspense. This is an extremely violent and gory show,and some of the images are so explicit i'm shocked it's able to be shown on Network TV. This is a great show, and it hooks you immediately. The characterIncredible first season show. An unexpected surprise by all accounts. The show is gorgeous, and has amazing visuals. The acting is very strong, and the plot is thick with intrigue and suspense. This is an extremely violent and gory show,and some of the images are so explicit i'm shocked it's able to be shown on Network TV. This is a great show, and it hooks you immediately. The character of Hannibal Lector is amazing as well. If you enjoy dark dramas with a hint of horror this is it. My rating: 8.0/10… Expand
  11. rafaram
    Apr 9, 2013
    8
    This is one of the best tv shows of this season. The writing is good, direction is top notch and the acting is brilliant. Finally a cop show that offer something different enough to make it feel unique. If this show receives any negative reviews it is because the direction is too complex for some people to appreciate. For those who thought this show was confusing just go back to CSI. ThisThis is one of the best tv shows of this season. The writing is good, direction is top notch and the acting is brilliant. Finally a cop show that offer something different enough to make it feel unique. If this show receives any negative reviews it is because the direction is too complex for some people to appreciate. For those who thought this show was confusing just go back to CSI. This is a smart show, with great actors amazing writing but overall amazing direction.… Expand
  12. Pucifer
    Nov 11, 2013
    8
    This is a superbly made TV series--great direction, art direction and sets, excellent acting (the leads and even the supporting roles are particularly well-cast for a TV series), artful digital cinematography, and exceptional music and sound effects. The story is a grisly, gory and extremely suspenseful one, however, the implausibilities start to accumulate and overwhelm the enjoyment (ifThis is a superbly made TV series--great direction, art direction and sets, excellent acting (the leads and even the supporting roles are particularly well-cast for a TV series), artful digital cinematography, and exceptional music and sound effects. The story is a grisly, gory and extremely suspenseful one, however, the implausibilities start to accumulate and overwhelm the enjoyment (if you can call it that) of the story after a while. I will stay tuned for Season 2, but it's really no fun watching supposedly brilliant FBI agents get played and made to look dumb in episode after episode. Come on guys--when will ya finally put the dots together?!… Expand
  13. Viennagirl
    May 4, 2013
    8
    Great show.the acting is amazing.not for children or young adults!i
    It plunges you in the depths of the human mind and its sick wanderings while making the subjects look fairly normal.
    I
  14. joeyperez
    Jun 2, 2013
    8
    solid 7.5, rounded up.

    pretty far from perfect, but different and very stylised. it is both easy to follow and a piece obsessed with art and aspiring to be it. this show is at once accessible and also very interesting. it isnt hannibal the early years, as its concerned less with hannibal that with its protagonist, and is of a different style and tone than the films. it does work, and it    solid 7.5, rounded up.

    pretty far from perfect, but different and very stylised. it is both easy to follow and a piece obsessed with art and aspiring to be it. this show is at once accessible and also very interesting. it isnt hannibal the early years, as its concerned less with hannibal that with its protagonist, and is of a different style and tone than the films. it does work, and it is well worth watching. its production values are top notch and its an eerily curious piece. you will need to put your suspension of disbelief in a fridge, nestled amongst some choice cuts of carrion though.    … Expand
  15. MCWFC
    May 14, 2013
    8
    Two episodes in and things are promising. Not sure how Hannibal and Graham's relationship will develop but, so far, at least, I am enthralled. Mikkelsen is very good as Hannibal
  16. callumjsouth
    Aug 6, 2015
    8
    Gripping, gory, great. A TV feast. Psychologically intriguing, aesthetically stunning and mentally rocking. Hannibal is one of the best dramas on TV. Bryan Fuller delivers a fresh presentation of Hannibal Lecter in a world where horror is just a day to day occurrence. This show is so graphic that at times it's hard to believe it is on network television. People meet horrific ends whilstGripping, gory, great. A TV feast. Psychologically intriguing, aesthetically stunning and mentally rocking. Hannibal is one of the best dramas on TV. Bryan Fuller delivers a fresh presentation of Hannibal Lecter in a world where horror is just a day to day occurrence. This show is so graphic that at times it's hard to believe it is on network television. People meet horrific ends whilst the show's true main character Will Graham lives a similarly horrific life, tortured by his own mind and empathy. Characterisation is strong here, be it Hannibal the master manipulator or Graham the tortured profiler. Laurence Fishburne's Jack Crawford even gets to take centre stage as his marriage troubles are very emotionally explored. Hannibal's strongest suit though and it certainly has many, is it's intensity. Entertainment comes easily to thrillers especially one this layered, unique and exciting. It truly hurts me that some people will overlook Hannibal due to reasons such as the network it is on, it's timeslot or it's possible disturbing content. This is drama of the highest order. Incredible depth, cinematography, entertainment and most of all, food.… Expand
  17. booboo
    Jun 5, 2013
    8
    What a well written and directed show.Also very stylish with great scenery.The first episode didn't grab me,too many flashbacks but fast forward 2,3 and 4 and i'm loving it.Mads Mikkelsen is his usual fantastic versatile self.All the characters are good.This show is a real breath of fresh air from CSI and the like.By the way Lar,i'm a woman and over the age of 45 and the more blood andWhat a well written and directed show.Also very stylish with great scenery.The first episode didn't grab me,too many flashbacks but fast forward 2,3 and 4 and i'm loving it.Mads Mikkelsen is his usual fantastic versatile self.All the characters are good.This show is a real breath of fresh air from CSI and the like.By the way Lar,i'm a woman and over the age of 45 and the more blood and guts the better.I love a good Gore Fest.… Expand
  18. marco86
    Jul 25, 2013
    8
    The movie plot is interesting but sometimes lack of the thrill we would expected. The movie's idea is complex and rarely found in any other TV series before, and it's too soon to judge this movie, since there's so much more that can be offered.
    Extra credit to Mads Mikkaelsen "He perfectly brings a difference approach of Hannibal Lecter with almost the same level of charisma and    The movie plot is interesting but sometimes lack of the thrill we would expected. The movie's idea is complex and rarely found in any other TV series before, and it's too soon to judge this movie, since there's so much more that can be offered.
    Extra credit to Mads Mikkaelsen "He perfectly brings a difference approach of Hannibal Lecter with almost the same level of charisma and characterization as Sr. Anthony Hopkins, which surprisingly nice and magnetic"    … Expand
  19. droper666
    Nov 14, 2013
    8
    The show is in general is a intense though for some slow moving uncensored look at the mind of a narcissistic brilliant sociopath. There is also an atmosphere of viscous madness which the show I think really does well at expressing subtly from episode to episode that is very unique and unseen in most television.

    The actors range in their ability but the main cast is really delivering    The show is in general is a intense though for some slow moving uncensored look at the mind of a narcissistic brilliant sociopath. There is also an atmosphere of viscous madness which the show I think really does well at expressing subtly from episode to episode that is very unique and unseen in most television.

    The actors range in their ability but the main cast is really delivering and very intense in their performances. The performances are also unique in their interpretations of the characters so the show really has its own take on Hannibal though many core elements remain the same.

    The show is also difficult to predict given its design. It is not based on Hannibal alone, but a handful of characters orbiting each other including Hannibal working in the realm of serial killer crime and psychology. I like this aspect of the show since I have no idea where it is going given it is not driven completely by Hannibals choices alone.    … Expand
  20. Dots
    Feb 27, 2014
    8
    It is an interesting and ingenious series.Having Mikkelsen,Dancy and Fishburne in it,it makes it better.It's a great mix of horror,thriller,and the drama that the character Will Graham does with every day.
  21. MikeyStephens
    Mar 10, 2014
    8
    I give this series such a high rating because I enjoy watching Hannibal Lector as a character his elegance and morale stand in what he does makes him just a brilliant character to watch I could not imagine trying to act as Dr Lector hat goes off too Mads (can't not remember his second name) and any actor who had attempted to tap the mind of the Hannibal Lector, Anthony Hopkins is still theI give this series such a high rating because I enjoy watching Hannibal Lector as a character his elegance and morale stand in what he does makes him just a brilliant character to watch I could not imagine trying to act as Dr Lector hat goes off too Mads (can't not remember his second name) and any actor who had attempted to tap the mind of the Hannibal Lector, Anthony Hopkins is still the standard an actor has to reach to become Hannibal, Mads does it so well.… Expand
  22. AllenReviews
    Jun 4, 2015
    8
    When I first heard about a hannibal tv show I thought it wasn't a good idea - but I was very wrong. Hannibal is such a beautiful show even though the subject of the tv shows seems rather dark, and the acting is also fantastic from the shows lead cast. My only problem with the first season was some of the cases the episode has only because there are so many shows that already do that kind of thing.
  23. marc5477
    Dec 26, 2015
    8
    A strong showing, all round, by everyone. The acting and script writing is very good with a few plot holes here and there. Hannibal is one of the most menacing characters I have seen in a TV show, and his actions and interactions made me want to see what will happen next. Like in the original movie, there are times when you actually root for Hannibal because in many ways he is a lesserA strong showing, all round, by everyone. The acting and script writing is very good with a few plot holes here and there. Hannibal is one of the most menacing characters I have seen in a TV show, and his actions and interactions made me want to see what will happen next. Like in the original movie, there are times when you actually root for Hannibal because in many ways he is a lesser evil than the people he eats, but at other times you can only grimace at his actions. The two bad things about this show are that the cops tend to be really dumb, and it gets tiring to see Hannibal get extremely lucky all the time. In many ways, this show reminds me of Dexter, but Dexter added a lot of dark humor while this show tends to stay straight forward. Still, one of my favorite shows on TV and I was very sad when they announced its cancellation. Hopefully someone will pick it up and continue.… Expand
  24. horcrux2007
    Jan 11, 2016
    8
    One of the mot beautifully filmed blood baths on television. Every episode is gory, intense and packed with amazing writing. The cinematography makes Hannibal one of the most stunning shows on television.
  25. lesann100
    Nov 24, 2014
    8
    I thought this series was a thrilling mind experience....it is dark and creepy...the irony of the mentally ill detective dealing with the seriel killer...and how they dance back and forth with each other....the entire relationship between them is twisted........it bothers me that the characters continue to engage him with their guard down...they know he is a master manipulator....and myI thought this series was a thrilling mind experience....it is dark and creepy...the irony of the mentally ill detective dealing with the seriel killer...and how they dance back and forth with each other....the entire relationship between them is twisted........it bothers me that the characters continue to engage him with their guard down...they know he is a master manipulator....and my how they are influenced.....my other issue is that it is extremely bloody...Im shocked that the graphics are allowed on prime time.… Expand
  26. albethos
    Jan 29, 2020
    8
    Although Mikkelsen and Fishburne bring another superb angle to the characters we got to know in TSOTL, it is Hugh Dancy playing a tormented Will Graham that towers above anything in this show. Bryan Fuller's adaptation is compelling but it takes its time to get where we want the show, or at least Season 1, to be.
  27. FilmQueen
    Oct 10, 2015
    8
    This is a visually stunning and interesting new interpretation of the story. It's creepy in a good way. Hugh Dancy's and Mads Mikkelsen's acting are great.
  28. pureshores
    Nov 27, 2016
    8
    Season 1 was about finding their niche in the already way too crowded market of crime shows.
    They realized in Season 2 that they didn't need to find their niche. They had the niche: Hannibal.
    Once settled, they had the freedom to make every episode in Season 3 like a work of art, visually and lyrically. I started out thinking I'll have to drag myself to finish the full 3 seasons. I    Season 1 was about finding their niche in the already way too crowded market of crime shows.
    They realized in Season 2 that they didn't need to find their niche. They had the niche: Hannibal.
    Once settled, they had the freedom to make every episode in Season 3 like a work of art, visually and lyrically.

    I started out thinking I'll have to drag myself to finish the full 3 seasons. I ended up still hoping and waiting for a Season 4.    … Expand
  29. amheretojudge
    Jan 16, 2018
    8
    please, come in..

    Hannibal Projecting such a dark topic is very tricky but the creator here keeps it smart by letting the audience imagine it until the series has taken hold of you and then shows you its real tone which is not easy to watch especially post second season. Its stage is really set in a more metaphorical way which opens a dreadful door of the combination of horror and    please, come in..

    Hannibal

    Projecting such a dark topic is very tricky but the creator here keeps it smart by letting the audience imagine it until the series has taken hold of you and then shows you its real tone which is not easy to watch especially post second season. Its stage is really set in a more metaphorical way which opens a dreadful door of the combination of horror and thrills that easily gives you the goosebumps. And in the end the heart of the series lies within the relation between the lead actors which is beautifully poetic.    … Expand
  30. theasset
    Apr 30, 2013
    7
    The pilot episode doesn't jump at you straight away, but give it a chance. By the third episode the writing and great acting hooks you and you can't stop watching.
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Awards & Rankings

69
#69 Best TV Season of 2013
4
#4 Most Discussed TV Season of 2013
34
#34 Most Shared TV Season of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
70

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 32
  3. Negative: 3 out of 32
  1. Slant Magazine
    Reviewed by: Chuck Bowen
    Jun 18, 2013
    88
    Hannibal is richer and more ambiguous than prior Harris adaptations; it's an exploration of social decay that's rife with literal and figurative cancers eating everyone alive from the ground up.
    Read full review
  2. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    Apr 5, 2013
    80
    By the end of the first hour, it has managed to make Dancy, Fishburne and Mikkelsen a formidable trio of characters, and each actor responds in kind with strong, engaging performances. Another sign of a good series is the fact that beyond the main three, the supporting cast is filled with solid actors and--more important--strong, vivid characters.
    Read full review
  3. Zap2it (Inside the Box)
    Reviewed by: Rick Porter
    Apr 4, 2013
    70
    It's anchored by several great performances, and it's among the more distinctive and gorgeously filmed shows on the air right now.... What did turn me off a bit in the first couple episodes of Hannibal was the victims were all young women.
    Read full review
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