• Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Apr 4, 2013
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 723 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 46 out of 723
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User Reviews

  1. Jul 1, 2014
    10
    Wow. I had no idea this show would be this good. ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE. I cannot wait for season 3.

    The lead actor is such a freaking boss. My god, is he awesome. Perfectly cast and acted.

    So much art direction, dialogue, psychological mind games.
  2. Mar 26, 2014
    10
    I am shocked at how good this show is. Season 1 was great, and season 2 is even better. The quality of the writing and acting is absolutely top notch. This is the best psychological thriller on television, and the fact that they're accomplishing this on Network television makes this even more amazing. Kudos to NBC for this - now let's hope they don't cancel it! That would be a realI am shocked at how good this show is. Season 1 was great, and season 2 is even better. The quality of the writing and acting is absolutely top notch. This is the best psychological thriller on television, and the fact that they're accomplishing this on Network television makes this even more amazing. Kudos to NBC for this - now let's hope they don't cancel it! That would be a real shame, as few shows are this compelling to watch. Expand
  3. May 25, 2014
    10
    Even better than the first season. It started off great and it ended perfectly. And now it's the torture of waiting for season 3 to come out. Hands down the best drama on TV and a must watch.
  4. Apr 6, 2014
    10
    Hannibal is the most visually stunning show I've ever seen.. If season 1 was brilliant, season 2 is phenomenal.. The cinematography, the dialogues, the acting.. It's all top notch..
  5. Mar 2, 2014
    10
    From the art direction to the acting to the pacing to the mood to everything else, this show is fantastic. The premise of season two is even more interesting than season one.
  6. Mar 15, 2014
    10
    Wow.

    After the macabre beauty of Season 1, it was hard to imagine this show topping what we saw with the second season. Now, just three episodes in, it is crystal clear that this show is just getting started. Hannibal has become the greatest tour de force on television since Breaking Bad finished its run last summer. Let that sink in for a moment, because I realize just how hard that
    Wow.

    After the macabre beauty of Season 1, it was hard to imagine this show topping what we saw with the second season. Now, just three episodes in, it is crystal clear that this show is just getting started. Hannibal has become the greatest tour de force on television since Breaking Bad finished its run last summer. Let that sink in for a moment, because I realize just how hard that can be to imagine given that there are several outstanding shows out there such as Game of Thrones, True Detective, Justified, and a few others. Hannibal, however, is possibly the best of all.
    Not a single moment of this show passes by with mere exposition to move the plot forward. This show treats each and every scene, every line of dialogue, and every expression on the character's faces as careful brush strokes to paint a truly mesmerizing piece of art that you just can't take your eyes off. This show, if not the best (though again, I believe it is), it is the most aesthetically pleasing show to look at.
    Hannibal continues to give us its heightened sense of reality as it takes us into the minds of monsters and those trying to understand them and ultimately stop them, but even more than that this season is giving us a mental cat-and-mouse game between Will Graham and Hannibal Lecter. I cannot honestly recall two characters on a show that represent a better yin-yang dynamic than these two, and the fact that the wrong man of the two is sitting behind bars, on trial with his life on the line, only makes the game that much more dangerous because you just know that others will have to be involved and that there will be collateral damage when it's all said and done. The first scene of the first episode was proof enough of that, and what spectacular proof it was!
    Hannibal started off with a first season that rivaled the greatest opening seasons of any show ever made, and now it is seemingly venturing into territory that only a few of those reached, which is future seasons that are even better than the first.
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  7. Aug 27, 2014
    10
    Hannibal delivers it big in Season 2. The first season doesn't hold a candle to this greatness. No longer is there a predictable episode structure. The acting is phenomenal, the visuals captivating, and the dialogue perhaps more ingenious than before. There are 2 distinct plot arcs in this season, and you would think the show only goes downhill after witnessing true awesomeness in theHannibal delivers it big in Season 2. The first season doesn't hold a candle to this greatness. No longer is there a predictable episode structure. The acting is phenomenal, the visuals captivating, and the dialogue perhaps more ingenious than before. There are 2 distinct plot arcs in this season, and you would think the show only goes downhill after witnessing true awesomeness in the first half. But the tension quickly ramps up again, building towards an explosive finale. Trust me when I say you won't be able to stop watching once you start. Good luck pulling yourself away from this masterpiece. Expand
  8. Aug 26, 2014
    10
    Hannibal season 1 was really good. Hannibal season 2 is amazing and one of the best shows on TV. The show got so much better, it was fantastic and I can't wait for season 3. The premiere was amazing and the flashforward was spectacular. Beautiful scene and it really showed what was going to happen later down in the season. If you thought season 1 was disgusting, think again. The murdersHannibal season 1 was really good. Hannibal season 2 is amazing and one of the best shows on TV. The show got so much better, it was fantastic and I can't wait for season 3. The premiere was amazing and the flashforward was spectacular. Beautiful scene and it really showed what was going to happen later down in the season. If you thought season 1 was disgusting, think again. The murders and crimes are even more weird and disgusting. They are gruesome and it's amazing this show is on NBC. The writing and directing on this show are clearly top notch. The theme music is perfectly placed. The entire cast does a great job with their acting especially Millekson and Dancy. They have perfect chemistry between one another and it's amazing watching them side by side. The show's overall storyline is better than ever and it all lead to one of the best finales in recent memory. The finale was truly fantastic and it had a shocking final sequence. This is definitely a top 5 drama for sure. Season 3 is supposed to be a refresh and I can't wait for it. Expand
  9. Jun 17, 2014
    10
    Normally i don't like to compare different seasons of one series. But at least i can say - 2nd season isn't worse than first, and what i can say definitely - it shows much more facets of old characters into the new light. And of course you'll see a new bunch of amazing breathtaking plot twists.
  10. Apr 16, 2014
    10
    I love this show. I look forward to it every week. I hope more people realize how dang smart these writers are and the rating bump up. I would love to see many seasons of this show. The acting is top notch!
  11. Apr 6, 2014
    10
    This is one of the best shows ever created. Much better than traditional crime shows and pulls you up and out of your seat like a movie. The 2 main characters' conflict fuels the story in the best of ways.
  12. Mar 1, 2014
    10
    Unbelievable and exciting start to Season 2. The look of this Hannibal universe is amazing, I think it is the most visually stunning show on television. That is only the start of it. The acting and writing on this show is incredible. Mikkelsen, Dancy, Fishburne, and many others put in excellent work every scene. Bryan Fuller has created, in my opinion, the best show on televisionUnbelievable and exciting start to Season 2. The look of this Hannibal universe is amazing, I think it is the most visually stunning show on television. That is only the start of it. The acting and writing on this show is incredible. Mikkelsen, Dancy, Fishburne, and many others put in excellent work every scene. Bryan Fuller has created, in my opinion, the best show on television (currently). Let's just hope NBC doesn't prematurely cancel this gem (average at best ratings) and they let Bryan's story unfold the way he wants it to. Expand
  13. Mar 30, 2014
    10
    Season two came right out swinging and hit A home run..This show is excellent.everything about is top tier,specially the acting..Hannibal Lecter is A character that whenever his name is mentioned,Anthony Hopkins face is Automatically associated with it,and rightfully so,he did an amazing job in the role...I have been A fan of Mads Mikkelsons' acting for A bit,so I was familiar with him,ISeason two came right out swinging and hit A home run..This show is excellent.everything about is top tier,specially the acting..Hannibal Lecter is A character that whenever his name is mentioned,Anthony Hopkins face is Automatically associated with it,and rightfully so,he did an amazing job in the role...I have been A fan of Mads Mikkelsons' acting for A bit,so I was familiar with him,I never thought it would be possible for someone to redefine the Hannibal character in such A way as he has..To me ,he has taken on what has to be one of the toughest assignments possible,making people see his version as Hannibal first,instead of Hopkins version,and in my opinion he is doing that...Just an overall great character,the physicality he brings to the role also adds more to it..All the actors do A great job on the show,and season two is doing great things.the intrigue each week as to when the moment comes that Jack Crawford finally realizes what Dr. Lecter is,leading us to the aftermath of that epic confrontation in the opening moments of the first episode of season two.. Expand
  14. Mar 9, 2014
    10
    Fantastic television series. 'Hannibal' is a rare breed of television. It is serialized, but still has some procedural elements that Bryan Fuller has kept, from his work on 'Pushing Daisies'. The acting is top-notch with stand out performances from Mads Mikkelson as the titular character, and from Hugh Dancy as FBI profiler Will Graham. Cinematography and sound are both executed withFantastic television series. 'Hannibal' is a rare breed of television. It is serialized, but still has some procedural elements that Bryan Fuller has kept, from his work on 'Pushing Daisies'. The acting is top-notch with stand out performances from Mads Mikkelson as the titular character, and from Hugh Dancy as FBI profiler Will Graham. Cinematography and sound are both executed with extreme care to detail. 'Hannibal' is one of the most visually stunning TV shows currently airing. This series should be added to your television 'repertoire', especially if you were a fan of Dexter (seasons 1,2, and 4) or simply enjoy the subject of psychology, both your garden variety psychological analyses of 'regular' people, and of sociopaths. Expand
  15. Mar 10, 2014
    10
    Mikkelsen's Lecter is the only reason anyone needs to watch this show. His portrayal of the complex malevolence Lecter is known for is absolutely magnificent. On the surface calm, rational, well educated and well spoken. Hannibal's dark brooding menace is heightened by his alter egos socially upright and conservative nature.

    It's a transformation not many actors could pull off, yet
    Mikkelsen's Lecter is the only reason anyone needs to watch this show. His portrayal of the complex malevolence Lecter is known for is absolutely magnificent. On the surface calm, rational, well educated and well spoken. Hannibal's dark brooding menace is heightened by his alter egos socially upright and conservative nature.

    It's a transformation not many actors could pull off, yet Mikkelsen handles the two very different aspects of his character in a way that grants credibility to the whole premise of the show. Fooling the FBI is a tall order, and Mikkelsen provides a Lecter capable of doing just that. Mikkelsen's masterclass in duplicity is so well realized that you could come to the show for him alone and be satisfied. In other words: come for Mikkelsen, stay for the entire ensemble.

    Mikkelsen's Lecter is irreproachable, sophisticated, cultured, professional, and at the same time ruthless, calculated, savage. He displays an apparent curiosity with those who think and feel differently, which isn't fraternity so much as a character trying to understand himself through others, and the actions of others.

    This is a great example of a TV show at the top of its game. One to watch.
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  16. Mar 10, 2014
    10
    Not just a great horror show, but a great show, period -- probably the best on TV right now. I smell an Emmy for Best Drama, just as Silence of the Lambs rose above its horror movie genre to win Best Picture.
  17. Mar 13, 2014
    10
    The best show right now! I can't wait for the episode each week, compelling plot, beautiful photography and soundtrack. And... Hugh Dancy is a very talented actor 'cause the mind of Will Graham is not simple, it's like a "terrible tangle". But all actors of this cast are amazing. Mads is absolutely "THE" Hannibal.
  18. Mar 12, 2014
    10
    Smart, visually rich and creative, with impeccable performances with regard to the actors, Hannibal has became my new favorite show! Bryan Fuller sure know what he is doing with this project.
  19. Dec 9, 2014
    10
    This show is one of the best shows on television which is shocking being that its on NBC. The acting is top notch, the cinematography probably some of the best on TV at the moment. I am seriously suprised how good this show is.
  20. Mar 17, 2014
    10
    comeatme90s review is probably written from his love for luther. Hannibal is a must watch series. end of story. The casting is excellent and the writing is brilliantly put together. Series 1 was excellent but had some flaws. Series 2 is fascinating and leaves you on the edge of you seat waiting to find out what will come of the protagonist and antagonists great game.
  21. Mar 20, 2014
    10
    There isn't a better looking TV show out there. The meticulous detail that goes into every beautiful scene is brilliantly appreciated by me. For a show that is universally liked; it isn't watched as much as I'd want it to be. I dread it being cancelled.
  22. Mar 29, 2014
    10
    Where to begin ?! there is so much praise to spread about Hannibal on both Season 1 and 2 ! the Writing is perfectly executed as well as the characters the plot and the nerve wracking tension each episode brings every week. Bothe portrayals of Hannibal Lecter and Will Graham are perfectly done. Mads Mikkelson and Hugh Dancy deserve more praise and more seasons to showcase their talent.Where to begin ?! there is so much praise to spread about Hannibal on both Season 1 and 2 ! the Writing is perfectly executed as well as the characters the plot and the nerve wracking tension each episode brings every week. Bothe portrayals of Hannibal Lecter and Will Graham are perfectly done. Mads Mikkelson and Hugh Dancy deserve more praise and more seasons to showcase their talent. Hopefully Hannibal will be able to avoid the chop come the end of season 2. By far its the best use of cinematography ive seen in my life. 10/10 Expand
  23. Apr 16, 2014
    10
    As beautiful and delicate as the first season, and more. I honestly have a hard time waiting for each episode, but it is worth every second of it. If you're a fan of "light horror" + crime, and have been waiting for something to blow you away, then Hannibal is your choice.
  24. May 27, 2014
    10
    After last season's stellar finale, I was really worried about where Bryan Fuller was going to go. Those worries were slashed and sauteed up. From episode 1 to 13, my only true word on it is wow. It has all of the best qualities: horror, suspense, action, comedy, irony, betrayal, even a bit of romance. And its a show about a serial killer and his extremely conflictedAfter last season's stellar finale, I was really worried about where Bryan Fuller was going to go. Those worries were slashed and sauteed up. From episode 1 to 13, my only true word on it is wow. It has all of the best qualities: horror, suspense, action, comedy, irony, betrayal, even a bit of romance. And its a show about a serial killer and his extremely conflicted friend/patient/victim/partner/fisherman. Just wow. Season 3 come and get me. Expand
  25. Jun 2, 2014
    10
    Consistent, surprising, smart, visually unique and stunning, top-notch acting, hauntingly scored; even all of that doesn't even cover the tip of the iceberg on this amazing, one-of-a-kind show. Hannibal is absolutely the best series on television right now. Having a show this good air so soon after the perfection that was Breaking Bad makes this so much more amazing.
  26. Jun 4, 2014
    10
    Just watched the finale. I had no idea where the writers were going with this show but holy crap they did an amazing job with this second season. Hannibal is one of the best TV shows I've ever seen and well worth the time to watch.
  27. Jun 22, 2014
    10
    Hannibal had silenced (no pun intended!) the naysayers with its excellent first season, but Season 2 truly cemented this as one of the very best TV shows on the air. It's not a tv show, it's an art. Profound and yet so subtle. It all culminated in the absolutely fantastic “Yakimono”, which was basically the first of two amazing finales Hannibal would deliver within one season. TheHannibal had silenced (no pun intended!) the naysayers with its excellent first season, but Season 2 truly cemented this as one of the very best TV shows on the air. It's not a tv show, it's an art. Profound and yet so subtle. It all culminated in the absolutely fantastic “Yakimono”, which was basically the first of two amazing finales Hannibal would deliver within one season. The excitement of Miriam (Anna Chlumsky) turning up alive turned out to simply be the next step in Hannibal’s twisted traps, as Miriam was a ticking time bomb of sorts – set to go off at just the right time, aimed at a perfectly-placed target in Chilton. Expand
  28. Jul 17, 2014
    10
    Artistic and gripping - this is the best thing I have seen for years, the first series was good but the second, is at a much better level, putting together great dialogue, human subtleties, art as well as good photography. Its a TV page turner. The characters are now so interesting with so much history you almost don't need anything else to happen, but I'm sure it will!
  29. Jul 17, 2014
    10
    Amazing Series, I loved it. Created a account here to voice how amazing the series really is. Beautiful, deep and insane - Masterful episodes. Ending was perfectly executed; I use to think breaking bad was the best TV I have ever seen, but Hannibal ended so much more masterfully that I was speechless.. Simply amazing..Amazing
  30. Jul 23, 2014
    10
    Hannibal is not only television at its finest; it is treated so cinematically--from the stunning visuals to the clever plot and character development--it arguably surpasses the Oscar-Winning "The Silence of the Lambs," or is, at the very least, of the same caliber. Mads Mikkelsen successfully takes over Anthony Hopkins's iconic version of Hannibal Lecter and renders it into chillinglyHannibal is not only television at its finest; it is treated so cinematically--from the stunning visuals to the clever plot and character development--it arguably surpasses the Oscar-Winning "The Silence of the Lambs," or is, at the very least, of the same caliber. Mads Mikkelsen successfully takes over Anthony Hopkins's iconic version of Hannibal Lecter and renders it into chillingly -collected and fascinating version--you too will wish to enroll for therapy sessions with the one and only. Expand
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    Mar 7, 2014
    100
    The show is infernally good. [17 Mar 2014]
  2. 100
    You could say it’s as close as a broadcast network has gotten to the personal artistry of the best premium-cable shows, if it weren’t bolder and more elegant than anything on pay cable right now, including HBO’s own serial-killer drama, True Detective.
  3. Reviewed by: Michael Starr
    Feb 28, 2014
    63
    Hannibal was lauded last season for its stylized look, which is on display here. Fishburne, as usual, is solid, and I like Dancy’s interpretation of Graham (just the right amount of despair without descending into self-pity).