I'm re-watching all 3 seasons and just had to come here to comment on Laurence Fishbourne's acting in this episode. I'm not sure whether being married to Gina Torres at the time gave him more vulnerability but, the moment he realises she has cancer, was an unspoken great moment of acting and really got to me this time round.
11 Reviews
Horrifying but beautiful
sophie-wise14 May 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Bryan Fuller unfortunately decided to forgo episode four of Hannibal this week. He has stated that this decision should not pose problems in terms of continuity although just in case, a mini web-series including snippets from the episode has been uploaded to the programme's official website. This swiftly brings us on to episode five, entitled Coquilles. In the words of Jack Crawford, "prepare yourself for this one" as it is quite possibly the most gory and emotionally-heavy installment of the series so far.
As each week has progressed so has Will Graham's profuse amount of sweating, resultant from his plagued psychosis of all things socio- pathic. Now sleepwalking has been added to the mix, which after meeting with Dr. Lecter, is thought to be a result of losing control or to cover up aggression. It's true – Graham has in a way been manipulated into returning to work for Crawford. Lecter brings this up of course, as part of his slow but continual path in presumably pitting both against one another. Furthermore the boundaries between serial killer and criminal profiler are dissipating for Graham; he is increasingly becoming "too close". Regardless, Graham struggles to think cohesively and therefore questions his abilities in remaining to work for the FBI (don't worry - he stays... for now.). Undoubtedly, failing to catch this week's serial killer was a key instigator of this doubt.
Okay - the mushroom fiasco from episode two was a pretty nasty affair. However, this week's contender named the 'Angel Maker' was most definitely a tough opponent as he mutilated and displayed his victims to form praying angels. This enabled the episode to showcase arguably its most gory and disturbing imagery, yet retained that ever-present visual flare that somehow makes each relevant frame captivating enough to form a piece of art. Graham profiled the 'Angel Maker's motive as protection – he had a brain tumour and was afraid of dying in his sleep so created guardian angels to watch over him (something also linked to a childhood trauma of his). Eventually he mutilated himself into an angel, embracing death and beating Graham to his arrest. As always, the serial-killer-of- the-week is a narrative device, a catalytic mechanism to characteristically develop our key protagonists. This week was no different as, not only did he throw Graham off course, but the 'Angel Maker's back story of a brain tumour also linked to Crawford's discovery that his wife had cancer . His revelation provided the episode with its most emotionally-heavy subject matter (and a moment of brilliant acting by Laurence Fishburne). Just in time, as Crawford's character development was almost non-existent up until now. Topic aside, it was great to finally see a more emotional side to him in dealing with such heavy personal issues.
Lecter, therefore, was situated in the background this week, although still managing to shine (and showcase an impressive sense of smell) when he has Crawford and his wife to dinner. The food he delivers looks exquisite and is consequently shot in food-porn territory. However it's a clever little trick as we continuously question the ingredients, further emphasised by the tantalizing dialogue exchanged. When Crawford's wife alludes to being a vegetarian, Lecter insists that all of his meat is from an "ethical butcher", someone who is kind to the animal before eating it. "I'm afraid I insist on it" he says, as if to give a massive wink to the audience. It's a true credit to the cast and crew that short sequences such as these can even carry the whole episode if needed.
Not that it is needed however, because as usual, another week - another stellar episode has passed, leaving us hungry for more. Subject matter was particularly heavy, whether it was Graham battling with his psychological demons or Crawford and his wife facing those of a more cancerous nature. It was dealt with in a smart, well-written and strongly performed manner forever keeping our eyes peeled and ears open. Just in case solid drama was not enough however, the show's gory crescendo managed to reach a new level, once again showcasing how tough imagery can be constructed in an eerily compelling way.
As each week has progressed so has Will Graham's profuse amount of sweating, resultant from his plagued psychosis of all things socio- pathic. Now sleepwalking has been added to the mix, which after meeting with Dr. Lecter, is thought to be a result of losing control or to cover up aggression. It's true – Graham has in a way been manipulated into returning to work for Crawford. Lecter brings this up of course, as part of his slow but continual path in presumably pitting both against one another. Furthermore the boundaries between serial killer and criminal profiler are dissipating for Graham; he is increasingly becoming "too close". Regardless, Graham struggles to think cohesively and therefore questions his abilities in remaining to work for the FBI (don't worry - he stays... for now.). Undoubtedly, failing to catch this week's serial killer was a key instigator of this doubt.
Okay - the mushroom fiasco from episode two was a pretty nasty affair. However, this week's contender named the 'Angel Maker' was most definitely a tough opponent as he mutilated and displayed his victims to form praying angels. This enabled the episode to showcase arguably its most gory and disturbing imagery, yet retained that ever-present visual flare that somehow makes each relevant frame captivating enough to form a piece of art. Graham profiled the 'Angel Maker's motive as protection – he had a brain tumour and was afraid of dying in his sleep so created guardian angels to watch over him (something also linked to a childhood trauma of his). Eventually he mutilated himself into an angel, embracing death and beating Graham to his arrest. As always, the serial-killer-of- the-week is a narrative device, a catalytic mechanism to characteristically develop our key protagonists. This week was no different as, not only did he throw Graham off course, but the 'Angel Maker's back story of a brain tumour also linked to Crawford's discovery that his wife had cancer . His revelation provided the episode with its most emotionally-heavy subject matter (and a moment of brilliant acting by Laurence Fishburne). Just in time, as Crawford's character development was almost non-existent up until now. Topic aside, it was great to finally see a more emotional side to him in dealing with such heavy personal issues.
Lecter, therefore, was situated in the background this week, although still managing to shine (and showcase an impressive sense of smell) when he has Crawford and his wife to dinner. The food he delivers looks exquisite and is consequently shot in food-porn territory. However it's a clever little trick as we continuously question the ingredients, further emphasised by the tantalizing dialogue exchanged. When Crawford's wife alludes to being a vegetarian, Lecter insists that all of his meat is from an "ethical butcher", someone who is kind to the animal before eating it. "I'm afraid I insist on it" he says, as if to give a massive wink to the audience. It's a true credit to the cast and crew that short sequences such as these can even carry the whole episode if needed.
Not that it is needed however, because as usual, another week - another stellar episode has passed, leaving us hungry for more. Subject matter was particularly heavy, whether it was Graham battling with his psychological demons or Crawford and his wife facing those of a more cancerous nature. It was dealt with in a smart, well-written and strongly performed manner forever keeping our eyes peeled and ears open. Just in case solid drama was not enough however, the show's gory crescendo managed to reach a new level, once again showcasing how tough imagery can be constructed in an eerily compelling way.
The blurring lines.
A_Voice30 December 2013
The lines between a serial killers mind and that of a profiler, specifically Will are blurring more and more as the time progresses. He is slowly losing control over his body resulting into sleepwalking.
With Will unable to sleep properly (mainly sleepwalking and bad nightmares), he reconsiders his decision to carry out his job. Meanwhile a suppose angel maker is on the lose.
An improvement from previous episode. Also a better and more philosophical serial killer. I don't like the concept of introducing a serial killer every episode but I'm beginning to accept it now. This episode fulfills the gory imagery missing from the previous episode, but still falls behind the mushrooms one (IMO). The killer in this episode is revealed before the action takes place, which negates the mystery element of as to "who the killer might be?", which is actually good for a change. Only the usual "why?"(reason for the actions) is prevalent and is fascinating and deep. It also has some usual Hannibal philosophical conversation scenes, and to the viewers delight, over a dinner table.
The back story of the psychopath killer strikes an element of interest, concern and realization for Jack Crawford. Which brings out some top notch acting from Lawrence, which he was potentially capable of but wasn't able to bring it up due to lack of character development in the previous episodes. This episode also has an emotional front which wasn't present up-till now in the series.
Direction: Strong.
Story/Screenplay: Well written and strong.
Acting: Lawrence may not be as good as Dancy and Mads, but is certainly excellent. Previously his character didn't require much of extraordinary acting.
Music: Excellent.
Overall a good episode, but not to be watched on a dinner table.
With Will unable to sleep properly (mainly sleepwalking and bad nightmares), he reconsiders his decision to carry out his job. Meanwhile a suppose angel maker is on the lose.
An improvement from previous episode. Also a better and more philosophical serial killer. I don't like the concept of introducing a serial killer every episode but I'm beginning to accept it now. This episode fulfills the gory imagery missing from the previous episode, but still falls behind the mushrooms one (IMO). The killer in this episode is revealed before the action takes place, which negates the mystery element of as to "who the killer might be?", which is actually good for a change. Only the usual "why?"(reason for the actions) is prevalent and is fascinating and deep. It also has some usual Hannibal philosophical conversation scenes, and to the viewers delight, over a dinner table.
The back story of the psychopath killer strikes an element of interest, concern and realization for Jack Crawford. Which brings out some top notch acting from Lawrence, which he was potentially capable of but wasn't able to bring it up due to lack of character development in the previous episodes. This episode also has an emotional front which wasn't present up-till now in the series.
Direction: Strong.
Story/Screenplay: Well written and strong.
Acting: Lawrence may not be as good as Dancy and Mads, but is certainly excellent. Previously his character didn't require much of extraordinary acting.
Music: Excellent.
Overall a good episode, but not to be watched on a dinner table.
Faced with death!
and_mikkelsen12 April 2024
This episode surprissed me with its more emotional layers that you might no immidiatly expect from a show like this! It was different, but fit in perfectly with the themes of life and death!
Laurence Fishburne really got to shine in this episode, turning Jack into more than one-layered FBI character! He is a great actor, and this episode shows! The last scenes was just amazing!
The case itself was memorable do to its gory nature! This show is no stranger to body-horror!
Will is also starting to feel the effects of his work as his mental health is declining and he is slowly loosing grasp on reality, creating dreams and visions that may or may not be real!
Laurence Fishburne really got to shine in this episode, turning Jack into more than one-layered FBI character! He is a great actor, and this episode shows! The last scenes was just amazing!
The case itself was memorable do to its gory nature! This show is no stranger to body-horror!
Will is also starting to feel the effects of his work as his mental health is declining and he is slowly loosing grasp on reality, creating dreams and visions that may or may not be real!
It makes you mesmerized
jetkot5 November 2017
If you are a fan of horror. This is the best horror could get. It is slow but it keeps you on your toes. Every scene is fantastic. Every conversation takes the story to the next level. The lead star cast was fantastic till now but now the focus shifts to the other cast as well. They do a fantastic job especially impressive is Laurence Fishburne. He impresses you so beautifully.
Technical Flaw
searchanddestroy-113 November 2023
Warning: Spoilers
In this awesome and gruesome episode, of course everything is flawless, terrific, subtle, written and directed in such a way that you can only be amazed by this pure art piece of work. But one thing is unfortunately unexplained, and NO ONE - reviewers as well as the characters - seems to have noticed it. HOW THE SERIAL KILLER DID TO KILL HIMSELF IN SUCH A WAY? Did you see how the two ccharacters found it in the barn? The least they could have done is to wonder, how the hell did this man do to hang with his back literally cut in two pieces...or the young investigator could have "imagined" - as he usually did for the previous killings - how the serial killer do to kill himself...It's a big flaw that bothers me too much. Such a shame.
When Misery Rains, it Pours (And How!)
zanghi_james8 March 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is very dramatic and incredibly disturbing.
Laurence Fishburne and Gina Torres steal the show with their performances in this episode as we learn what Bella Crawford was talking about in the previous episode (and it is not good) and Jack attempts to balance work and his personal life.
Will Graham's life, meanwhile, starts to heavily unravel as he starts to sleepwalk along with his usual nightmares. It doesn't help that the murderer he is profiling in this episode is doing pre-mortem mutilations to his victims, also. However, there is a great scene at the end with him and Jack where, following a pair of arguments, he just shows up as a friend.
Hannibal, oddly enough, isn't too big a character in this episode, but he does have a presence.
In regards to the episode's murderer (Angel Maker), he's probably the most tragic killer yet on the show as you learn WHY he is doing it, it kind of makes you feel for him. Still, it doesn't excuse the fact he murders and mutilates three people.
Stay Scared!
#StandWithUkraine.
Laurence Fishburne and Gina Torres steal the show with their performances in this episode as we learn what Bella Crawford was talking about in the previous episode (and it is not good) and Jack attempts to balance work and his personal life.
Will Graham's life, meanwhile, starts to heavily unravel as he starts to sleepwalk along with his usual nightmares. It doesn't help that the murderer he is profiling in this episode is doing pre-mortem mutilations to his victims, also. However, there is a great scene at the end with him and Jack where, following a pair of arguments, he just shows up as a friend.
Hannibal, oddly enough, isn't too big a character in this episode, but he does have a presence.
In regards to the episode's murderer (Angel Maker), he's probably the most tragic killer yet on the show as you learn WHY he is doing it, it kind of makes you feel for him. Still, it doesn't excuse the fact he murders and mutilates three people.
Stay Scared!
#StandWithUkraine.
I'm Going To Sit Here Until You're Ready To Talk,
wandernn1-81-6832741 August 2020
So in this one we get introduced to a new crime scene and in theory a new killer...
or is it???
+1 Star for the horrific nature of this new crime !!!
Once again Crawford is over at Lecter's for dinner. What a lovely lovely presentation Lecter always gives!!
+1 Star for 1 more amazing dinner!!!
It makes me want to sign up for the FBI just on the chance I get such an amazing chef for a friend!!! :)
Oh and Crawford finds out a revelation about his wife. Which is very disheartening.
+1 Star for that interaction and the following brief conversation with Graham and Crawford.
This one gets 8/10
or is it???
+1 Star for the horrific nature of this new crime !!!
Once again Crawford is over at Lecter's for dinner. What a lovely lovely presentation Lecter always gives!!
+1 Star for 1 more amazing dinner!!!
It makes me want to sign up for the FBI just on the chance I get such an amazing chef for a friend!!! :)
Oh and Crawford finds out a revelation about his wife. Which is very disheartening.
+1 Star for that interaction and the following brief conversation with Graham and Crawford.
This one gets 8/10
Really Good [8/10]
panagiotis199314 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
My Reaction / Review for Hannibal Season 1 Episode 5: Episode 4 was good and I gave it a rating of 7.5/10. Is Will sleep walking? This new killer seems very disturbed, the way he killed these people is insane. Jack and his wife about to enjoy a good meal by Hannibal, I cant wait for them to find out what they were eating. Hannibal has the best outfits ever, love his sense of style. Wait is Jack's wife cheating on him? That sucks. Jack's marriage is falling apart. The Angel Maker is such a cool name for a serial killer. Also this is a much better subplot than the previous episode. Bella has cancer? That sucks. Will have a serious sleeping problem. I didn't expect that the Angel Maker would take his own life. Overall a good episode, my rating is 8/10.
Good until the ending
Allsaints1126 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The man hanged himself while his legs were tied and his arms were tied up. How did this man climb so high cut his back up and then attach all those hooks and ropes. It would only be possible with a number of other people to make sure he doesn't just fall. Other than the ending it was a great episode that was entertaining. It is also rather entertaining to think how did he carry another person so high up and then attached all those ropes and hooks without anyone hearing all the clanging of the metal against the metal pipes. Just some minor details that are interesting to think about. There should have been at least one witness that happened to hear him climbing the construction.
Bloody Angels
ZegMaarJus26 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This Episode begins with Will, he is sleepwalking outside in the middle of the. Will got caught by the police. Will arrived at another cruel crime scene, a man and woman their backs have been taken off. Another man has been killed on a very cruel way. Bella tells to Hannibal that she has cancer, Jack knows nothing about it. Jack and Will speak with Mrs Budish. Will found Elliot, he died, he hangs like an angel. Jack found out that Bella has cancer. Nice Episode of Hannibal Season 1, the story is getting his shape. Hannibal gets a bigger role in all of the events! Perfect acting from Mads Mikkelsen!
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