Hannibal: A Masterful Psychological Thriller

This NBC series is a rare blend of horror, thriller, and unconventional love story across three seasons of drama.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Hannibal, the NBC series based on the Hannibal Lecter character from Thomas Harris' novels, is a masterpiece that offers a unique blend of horror, thriller, and unconventional love story. The show features a captivating dynamic between Hannibal Lecter, played by Mads Mikkelsen, and FBI profiler Will Graham, portrayed by Hugh Dancy. As the series progresses, the relationship between the two becomes increasingly complex and twisted, culminating in a tragic but fitting end.

Why it matters

Hannibal pushed the boundaries of what network TV was capable of at the time, bringing a level of style, artistry, and psychological depth that had long been the domain of premium cable. The show's stunning cinematography, jet-black humor, and exploration of the twisted relationship between Hannibal and Will make it a rare television masterpiece that blends horror, thriller, and an unconventional love story.

The details

The series expands on and slightly alters the backstory provided in the Red Dragon novel about the first meeting between Hannibal and Will. In the series, Will meets Hannibal as a psychiatrist and consultant to a serial killer case, before turning to Hannibal for psychiatric help. As the first season progresses, Hannibal manipulates Will, leading him to believe he understands killers because he wants secretly to be one. By the time Will recognizes what's happening, it's too late, and Hannibal has framed him for the murders he committed.

  • Hannibal first appeared in Thomas Harris' 1981 novel Red Dragon.
  • The Silence of the Lambs film adaptation, starring Anthony Hopkins, was released in 1991.
  • The Hannibal TV series aired from 2013 to 2015.

The players

Hannibal Lecter

A sophisticated and intellectually unrivaled cannibal, portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen in the TV series. Mikkelsen's performance is considered a distinct masterpiece, creating a wholly original depiction of the character.

Will Graham

An FBI profiler with an innate empathy that allows him to understand the minds of serial killers, played by Hugh Dancy in the TV series. Will's relationship with Hannibal becomes increasingly complex and twisted.

Jack Crawford

An FBI agent, played by Laurence Fishburne, who insists that Will seek psychiatric help from Hannibal after a traumatic incident.

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What they’re saying

“They don't know what else to call him.”

— Will Graham, FBI Profiler (Red Dragon (novel)

“You hurt me, I hurt you back.”

— Hannibal Lecter (Hannibal (TV series)

What’s next

The Hannibal TV series concluded in 2015, but the character of Hannibal Lecter continues to captivate audiences. The Red Dragon novel, which introduced the character, has been adapted for film multiple times, most notably in the 1986 film Manhunter and the 2002 film Red Dragon.

The takeaway

Hannibal is a rare television masterpiece that blends horror, psychological thriller, and an unconventional love story in a visually stunning and artistically ambitious way. The show's exploration of the twisted relationship between Hannibal and Will Graham is a testament to the power of complex, character-driven storytelling on the small screen.