I think this comes down to two things: first, they didn't have a third solid story arc from Thomas Harris to make another movie after this one. Aside from the prequel idea for Red Dragon. And Anthony Hopkins was getting too old and obese to make another convincing appearence, well until he lost weight for Red Dragon. So they thought this is it, this is the end of the line, let's end with a flourish, a dramatic gesture, self-sacrifice to show that yes, he was capable of truly caring about other people, about Clarice anyway.
Honestly though, I didn't like it either. I love Hannibal Lecter and I would much prefer him to have use of both his hands. I have so much sympathy for the guy and how hard it is for him to function normally in a world full of insipid, horrible, self-centered pricks.
reply
share