Latest news with #SilenceoftheLambs'
San Francisco Chronicle
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
Aging is the real killer in Bay Area author's latest serial killer tale
According to popular fiction, being a serial killer is troublingly easy, a game played by people with near-supernatural intelligence and abilities. But Samantha Downing knows the truth. 'Killing people is hard work,' the Novato-born novelist says. 'Besides the actual physical work of murder, there's the cleanup and technology to deal with, along with setting up an alibi and dealing with the police. It's a young person's game.' But while pop culture abounds with actively homicidal anti-heroes in the prime of their lives (look no further than the currently airing 'Dexter: Resurrection' for a slew of 'em), we hear less about killers in the senior set. This, even though America's aging population is one of the greatest social forces of our time. Downing changes all that with 'Too Old For This,' her latest thriller. Like Hannibal Lecter, the arguable gold standard of killers for whom you root, Lottie Jones spent much of her youth killing people who were rude to her. Also like Lecter (who, based on his age in 'Silence of the Lambs' would be 84 today), she's a senior citizen, a 75-year-old with many of the infirmities that come with age. So when Jones has to return to her old ways — this time, to keep her murderous past under wraps — it's a lot tougher than she expected. But unlike Lecter, Jones is willing to set aside her ego and sense of self to get what she wants. In her case, that means leaning into society's low expectations for the elderly to avoid suspicion, by feigning borderline dementia and adopting a walker-aided shuffle when under scrutiny. 'Lottie knows that older women are invisible in society,' Downing says. 'She isn't as physically capable as she used to be, and she uses it to her advantage the same way a lot of younger women act like they can't lift something or open a jar.' A sharp woman's willingness to play the old and doddering crone has a rich history in crime fiction: Agatha Christie's famous detective, Miss Marple, is a great example of how ladies with grey hair are so frequently underestimated when murder is afoot. It's far rarer that we see imaginary men take that route, notes true crime author Sara DiVello, the interviewer behind YouTube series ' Mystery and Thriller Mavens.' 'When men know what they're doing — which often involves being dispassionate and calculating — people say they're strategic visionaries, they're geniuses. When women are capable, they're hated, they're feared. If you're too old to be cute, then you have to be unthreatening. You have to hide who you are if you want to get ahead. It's infuriating' Like DiVello, Lottie has been enraged by this inequity for years, often to the point of murder. So there's a pleasant symmetry to how she turns that bias to her advantage when she has to start killing again. The idea for a less able killer came to Downing during a health crisis of her own. 'I was always really healthy and fit,' the 56-year-old says. But a serious illness temporarially limited her mobility. 'I couldn't be active, and had to adapt and adjust to a new reality. I hated it and was so angry, so I channeled it all into Lottie. I'd been writing a different story about a much younger protagonist who didn't have any of these problems, and I threw it all away.' Downing, who has since made a full recovery, says the experience provided her with an important subtext for her book. 'I like to use serial killing as a vehicle to tell a story,' she says, citing filmmaker George Romero, whose 'Night of the Living Dead' series revolutionized the horror genre. 'He used to say that the zombies don't matter, and that he's interested in telling a human story about how people react to the zombies.' So for Downing, 'This isn't a thriller about serial killers. This is a thriller about aging,' with Lottie's dismemberments of various victims broken up by visits to the doctor for medication adjustments, joint pain, and conflicts with members of her church group. Sure, fears that she might get caught hang over Lottie every step of the way, but so do her worries over how long she can live independently — and what she'll do when she can't. Downing's unflinching look at the specific anxieties faced by a woman who is aging alone is unusual for the genre, and it's a telling reveal of societal biases that Lottie's sometimes-desperate calculations around how long she can afford to keep living are some of the most unsettling in the book. Most of us can talk about murder all day long. It's entertainment, right? But far fewer of us make cocktail party chit-chat about how those last years before one's natural end of life might play out. In many ways, the same skills that made Lottie a successful killer are what will help her navigate that time most of us prefer not to think about. 'She can look directly at things that most people want to avoid,' Downing says. 'That's one of the benefits of being a sociopath. You know how to make a really, really good plan.'
South Wales Argus
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Sir Anthony Hopkins mocks Kim Kardashian's face wrap
The Welsh actor who was born in Bridgend, went to Monmouth Boys' school in Pontypool and has links to Newport, rebirthed his Hannibal Lecter character to mock Kardashian's SKIMS face wrap. Fans were left howling when Kardashian launched her new 'Ultimate Face' product from her shapewear line, comparing the garment to the Silence of the Lambs' villain Lecter's bite restraint mask worn by Hopkins in the 1991 film. Hopkins was awarded an Oscar for his on-screen role as the cannibal and wore a nude post-surgical mask in a social media post saying: 'Hello Kim, I'm already feeling 10 years younger. Goodbye.' This was before he recreated the legendary 'fava beans and Chianti' scene and captioned the clip: 'Thank you, Kim. Don't be afraid to come over for dinner.' Fans responded with hilarity online, expressing their shock at Hopkins being the one they expected to roast Kim about her new product.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Netflix just added an intense psychological thriller movie with Sigourney Weaver — and it's already crashed the top 10
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Even though Netflix releases its lineup for each month, the streaming service occasionally adds movies not originally on the schedule, which can be easy to miss. In this case, 'Copycat' landed on Netflix U.S. on June 15, but thankfully, it didn't go unnoticed because it's already cracked the top 10 list by hopping into the tenth spot. I'm not surprised people jumped on 'Copycat' since it has all the ingredients subscribers often look for: big stars like Sigourney Weaver, Holly Hunter and Dermot Mulroney, and a chilling serial killer story that might just get under your skin. Originally released in 1995, 'Copycat' didn't make a huge splash at the box office, but over time it's become something of a hidden gem among thriller fans. Its psychological tension and strong performances has helped it build a quiet cult following over the years. This psychological thriller follows a criminal psychologist struggling with agoraphobia after a traumatic attack, who teams up with a detective to catch a serial killer replicating the methods of infamous murderers. While plot isn't the most original, the movie still makes for a gripping watch, and one that gets your adrenaline pumping if you choose to see it alone. If you've scrolled through Netflix today and noticed 'Copycat' suddenly appear in the top 10 list, here's everything you need to know before adding it to your watchlist. 'Copycat' follows Dr. Helen Hudson (Sigourney Weaver), a renowned criminal psychologist who becomes a recluse after surviving a traumatic attack by a deranged killer. Now agoraphobic and living in isolation, Helen is reluctantly pulled back into the world of crime-solving when a new serial killer begins targeting victims in San Francisco, each murder eerily mimicking the methods of infamous real-life murderers. Assigned to the case are Detective M.J. Monahan (Holly Hunter) and her partner Reuben Goetz (Dermot Mulroney), who turn to Helen for insight as the killings escalate. Despite her crippling fear of the outside world, Helen uses her expertise to identify the pattern behind the copycat killings. As the investigation intensifies, she and M.J. form an unlikely bond, working together to stay one step ahead of the killer, who seems to be watching Helen more closely than anyone realizes. 'The Silence of the Lambs' wasn't the very first Hollywood movie about serial killers, but its massive critical and box office success sparked a wave of similar movies that dominated the '90s before eventually fading out. One of these copycats is ... well, Jon Amiel's 1995 thriller 'Copycat.' While it might not surpass 'Silence of the Lambs' or even Brad Pitt's 'Seven,' it's still a pretty intense watch and makes for some chilling midnight viewing. It's refreshing to watch a thriller that centers on two smart, strong women, and even better that they're brought to life by Holly Hunter and Sigourney Weaver, two powerhouse actresses of their generation. There's real substance behind both characters, which helps 'Copycat' rise above just being another serial killer movie. 'Copycat' is very much a psychological study, taking time to explore the human side of its characters. Dr. Helen Hudson is dealing with some serious trauma and can't bring herself to leave the house, while Detective M.J. Monahan is driven by a strong commitment to solving the case and stopping the serial killer terrorizing the city. Without this character development, 'Copycat' would feel hollow in the landscape of serial killer thrillers. Director Amiel, known for the unique and highly praised 1986 BBC series 'The Singing Detective,' shows his expertise here by keeping the story tightly focused. The movie hardly ever wanders off track, always pushing the plot forward while keeping the tension just strong enough to stay gripping. Like classic studio movies that carefully balanced what the audience needed to know, this movie reveals just enough information to save you from feeling lost. While 'Copycat' definitely has its strengths, there are a few noticeable flaws. The whole idea of a killer copying famous murderers felt a little predictable at times, and you might find yourself guessing where the story was headed a bit too early. In some ways it shares too many similarities with 'Seven' for this reason. Outside of the two strong leads, most of the supporting cast doesn't get much time to be explored, which makes the world around them feel a little thin. I'm sure Netflix viewers will still enjoy 'Copycat' (and I think it's worthy of your time even with these flaws). Movies have long been drawn to exploring evil, and I think part of that comes from how our own fears tend to fuel our interest. You don't need to take my word for it either, since 'Copycat' has a solid rating of 76% on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences rating it slightly lower at 64%. The site's critic consensus reads: 'Copycat's outstanding cast helps this often unpleasant thriller transcend the less palatable elements of its standard-issue story.' Minneapolis Star Tribune's Jeff Strickler said: 'Although the plotting of this mystery-thriller about a copycat killer is flawed, Hunter and Weaver drive the show with strong performances.' Meanwhile, Trace Thurman from Horror Queers Podcast shared the same thoughts, stating that 'Weaver and Hunter are at the top of their game, elevating what is essentially a 2-hour episode of a CBS crime procedural into high art.' So if you were going to take anything away from these reviews, it's that 'Copycat' is worth watching for the performances alone. If you haven't already added 'Copycat' to your Netflix watchlist, now's the time. The whole 'killer copying famous murderers' concept isn't exactly new, but this thriller handles it in a surprisingly smart and stylish way. And a big part of why it works so well is, of course, Sigourney Weaver. I already loved her (partly because she stars in my favorite franchise of all time, 'Alien') but she really shines here. I'd argue that 'Copycat' is one of her best roles and a big reason why it's well worth carving out two hours of your time. 'Copycat' is now streaming on Netflix. For more streaming recommendations, see what else is new on Netflix in June 2025. Netflix just got this fantasy action movie with Vin Diesel and Elijah Wood I didn't expect Netflix's new romantic sci-fi movie to be this charming This new on Netflix action-thriller with Gerard Butler soars to No. 1 spot
See - Sada Elbalad
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
"Final Destination Bloodlines" Hits Digital as New Blu-ray Collection Releasing in July
Yara Sameh "Final Destination" recently returned with a new generation of unlucky folks dying one by one in ways that will haunt you forever. Bloodlines, the sixth movie in the franchise and the first new addition since 2011, was released in theaters on May 16 and has since grossed over $270 million globally. There's nothing quite like seeing elaborate death traps on the big screen, but if you've been waiting to watch the new slasher movie in the comfort of your own home, you're in luck. "Final Destination Bloodlines" is now available to rent or buy from digital platforms with a 4K steelbook, and a new Final Destination Blu-ray collection is releasing next month. The move to digital comes almost exactly four weeks after the movie's original release in theaters. Despite recent opposition from organizations like Cinema United, we're still seeing the continued post-pandemic and heavily streaming-influenced trend of shortened theatrical release windows. Nonetheless, "Final Destination Bloodlines" has continued to see success at the box office alongside positive reviews. The movie is slowly creeping up the list of highest-grossing horror movies of all time, likely overtaking Silence of the Lambs' spot by the end of the week. "Sinners", another recent release still showing in theaters, has also been climbing up that list, and could even break into the top 10. Safe to say, 2025 is shaping up to be a solid year for horror at the box office. "Final Destination Bloodlines" will likely join the rest of the Final Destination franchise on HBO Max at one point or another. However, at the time of the digital release, we've yet to get any specific information on the streaming timeline. Most Warner Bros. movies land on the streaming service within three months of their initial release date, so "Final Destination Bloodlines" may land on HBO Max by mid-September. "Final Destination Bloodlines" is getting its own limited edition 4K steelbook with a fresh set of bonus features, including audio commentary by the film's directors, Adam Stein & Zach Lipovsky, and a reflection from the late Tony Todd on 'The Legacy of Bludworth.' For fans of the full franchise, there's also a new six-movie Final Destination collection up for preorder. Every existing movie's special features are included on each disc, and the collection is set to release on the same day as the Bloodlines steelbook, July 22. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean News 3 Killed in Shooting Attack in Thailand
Tom's Guide
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
Netflix just added a psychological thriller movie full of surprising twists — and it's one of Sigourney Weaver's best roles
Even though Netflix releases its lineup for each month, the streaming service occasionally adds movies not originally on the schedule, which can be easy to miss. In this case, 'Copycat' landed on Netflix U.S. on June 15, but thankfully, it didn't go unnoticed because it's already cracked the top 10 list. I'm not surprised people jumped on 'Copycat' since it has all the ingredients subscribers often look for: big stars like Sigourney Weaver, Holly Hunter and Dermot Mulroney, and a chilling serial killer story that might just get under your skin. This psychological thriller follows a criminal psychologist struggling with agoraphobia after a traumatic attack, who teams up with a detective to catch a serial killer replicating the methods of infamous murderers. While plot isn't the most original, the movie still makes for a gripping watch, and one that gets your adrenaline pumping. If you've scrolled through Netflix today and noticed 'Copycat' in the top 10, here's everything you need to know before adding it to your watchlist. 'Copycat' follows Dr. Helen Hudson (Sigourney Weaver), a renowned criminal psychologist who becomes a recluse after surviving a traumatic attack by a deranged killer. Now agoraphobic and living in isolation, Helen is reluctantly pulled back into the world of crime-solving when a new serial killer begins targeting victims in San Francisco, each murder eerily mimicking the methods of infamous real-life murderers. Assigned to the case are Detective M.J. Monahan (Holly Hunter) and her partner Reuben Goetz (Dermot Mulroney), who turn to Helen for insight as the killings escalate. Despite her crippling fear of the outside world, Helen uses her expertise to identify the pattern behind the copycat killings. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. As the investigation intensifies, she and M.J. form an unlikely bond, working together to stay one step ahead of the killer, who seems to be watching Helen more closely than anyone realizes. 'The Silence of the Lambs' wasn't the very first Hollywood movie about serial killers, but its massive critical and box office success sparked a wave of similar movies that dominated the '90s before eventually fading out. One of these copycats is ... well, Jon Amiel's 1995 thriller 'Copycat.' While it might not surpass 'Silence of the Lambs' or even Brad Pitt's 'Seven,' it's still a pretty intense watch and makes for some chilling midnight viewing. It's refreshing to watch a thriller that centers on two smart, strong women, and even better that they're brought to life by Holly Hunter and Sigourney Weaver, two powerhouse actresses of their generation. There's real substance behind both characters, which helps 'Copycat' rise above just being another serial killer movie. 'Copycat' is very much a psychological study, taking time to explore the human side of its characters. Dr. Helen Hudson is dealing with some serious trauma and can't bring herself to leave the house, while Detective M.J. Monahan is driven by a strong commitment to solving the case and stopping the serial killer terrorizing the city. Without this character development, 'Copycat' would feel hollow in the landscape of serial killer thrillers. Director Amiel, known for the unique and highly praised 1986 BBC series 'The Singing Detective,' shows his expertise here by keeping the story tightly focused. The movie hardly ever wanders off track, always pushing the plot forward while keeping the tension just strong enough to stay gripping. Like classic studio movies that carefully balanced what the audience needed to know, this movie reveals just enough information to save you from feeling lost. While 'Copycat' definitely has its strengths, there are a few noticeable flaws. The whole idea of a killer copying famous murderers felt a little predictable at times, and you might find yourself guessing where the story was headed a bit too early. In some ways it shares too many similarities with 'Seven' for this reason. Outside of the two strong leads, most of the supporting cast doesn't get much time to be explored, which makes the world around them feel a little thin. I'm sure Netflix viewers will still enjoy 'Copycat' (and I think it's worthy of your time even with these flaws). Movies have long been drawn to exploring evil, and I think part of that comes from how our own fears tend to fuel our interest. If you haven't already added 'Copycat' to your Netflix watchlist, now's the time. The whole 'killer copying famous murderers' concept isn't exactly new, but this thriller handles it in a surprisingly smart and stylish way. And a big part of why it works so well is, of course, Sigourney Weaver. I already loved her (partly because she stars in my favorite franchise of all time, 'Alien') but she really shines here. I'd argue that 'Copycat' is one of her best roles and a big reason why it's well worth carving out two hours of your time. You don't need to take my word for it either, since 'Copycat' has a solid rating of 76% on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences rating it slightly lower at 64%. The site's critic consensus reads: 'Copycat's outstanding cast helps this often unpleasant thriller transcend the less palatable elements of its standard-issue story.' 'Copycat' is now streaming on Netflix. For more streaming recommendations, see what else is new on Netflix in June 2025.
