Don't get me wrong, this version is a serviceable movie. It's a film that covers all of the bases, albeit none exceptionally or memorably. Hopkins, as Lecter, is as funny, albeit not nearly as scary, as ever. Norton, as retired Detective Will Graham, brings his usual high degree of intelligence and commitment to his part, but the director is never able to tap into Norton's vast emotional reservoir.

In a supporting role, Watson gives a very precise and impressive rendition of Reba McClane, a blind woman with a big heart who befriends the story's killer. If you remember the plot of MANHUNTER, the imprisoned Lecter is not the killer this time, but someone whom Graham turns to for advice in tracking down a serial killer known as the Tooth Fairy. Hoffman adds his special something to the role of Freddy Lounds, a pesky tabloid report who ends up aiding the police in the investigation. Finally, last and certainly least, Fiennes, as the Tooth Fairy, delivers one of his weakest performances in an unconvincing characterization.

If MANHUNTER is checked out at your video store, seeing RED DRAGON isn't a bad second choice, but, personally, I'd wait until a copy of MANHUNTER came back in.

RED DRAGON runs a long and frequently slow 2:04. It is rated R for "violence, grisly images, language, some nudity and sexuality" and would acceptable for most teenagers.