When NBC announced it was committing to Hannibal, a series created by Bryan Fuller, it was said the series would focus on Will Graham and Hannibal Lecter. But in what capacity? Was it going to be about Graham’s pursuit of Lecter? Or, was it about the working relationship they shared – hinted at in Thomas Harris’ Red Dragon novel (and respective film adaptations)? A recent press release about the series’ 2012-2013 mid-season debut confirms the latter with a full description of what’s to come.
“Hannibal” — One of the most fascinating literary characters comes to life on television for the first time: psychiatrist-turned-serial-killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. In this new drama from Bryan Fuller (“Pushing Daisies,” “Heroes”), based on the characters from Thomas Harris’ classic novels, we see where this incredible story began. Will Graham (Hugh Dancy, “The Big C”) is a gifted criminal profiler who is on the hunt for a serial killer with the FBI. Graham’s unique way of thinking gives him the astonishing ability to empathize with anyone even psychopaths. He seems to know what makes them tick. But when the mind of the twisted killer he’s pursuing is too complicated for even Will to comprehend, he enlists the help of Dr. Lecter, one of the premier psychiatric minds in the country. Armed with the uncanny expertise of the brilliant doctor, Will and Hannibal (known as a serial killer only to the audience) form a brilliant partnership and it seems there’s no villain they can’t catch. If Will only knew Fuller is writer and executive producer. Martha De Laurentis (“Red Dragon,” “Hannibal”), Sara Colleton (“Dexter”), Jesse Alexander (“Lost”, “Heroes”), and Katie O’Connell also serve as executive producers. David Slade is the director/executive producer for the series pilot. “Hannibal” is produced by Gaumont International Television.
We spoke to Hugh Dancy about the series recently, you can read all about that here. Of course, when we find out who will play Hannibal Lecter, we’ll pass the word along to you.
