The story follows FBI agent Will Graham (played by Edward Norton), who is haunted by his past encounters with the notorious serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (played by Anthony Hopkins). Graham has a unique ability to empathize with criminals, which allows him to understand their thought processes and capture them. However, his last encounter with Lecter left him emotionally scarred and on the brink of retirement.
Graham is reluctantly pulled back into the field when a new serial killer known as the “Tooth Fairy” emerges. The Tooth Fairy, whose real name is Francis Dolarhyde (played by Ralph Fiennes), has been murdering families in brutal fashion and leaving bite marks on his victims.
To catch the Tooth Fairy, Graham seeks the help of Dr. Lecter, who is imprisoned in a mental institution. Lecter agrees to assist Graham in profiling the killer, but he also uses the opportunity to manipulate Graham and toy with his emotions.
As Graham delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a connection between the Tooth Fairy and Lecter’s past. He learns that Dolarhyde is obsessed with Lecter and sees him as a mentor and father figure. Dolarhyde begins to emulate Lecter’s methods and even seeks his approval.
Meanwhile, Graham’s investigation puts him and his family in danger as Dolarhyde targets him for getting too close to the truth. Graham must confront his own fears and insecurities as he races against time to stop the Tooth Fairy before he strikes again.
In a climactic showdown, Graham confronts Dolarhyde at his home, leading to a tense and violent confrontation. With the help of Lecter’s insights, Graham is able to outsmart Dolarhyde and ultimately defeat him.
In the aftermath of the case, Graham decides to retire from the FBI for good, realizing the toll that his work has taken on him and his family. Lecter, meanwhile, escapes from custody and disappears into the night, setting the stage for the events of “The Silence of the Lambs.”
“Red Dragon” is praised for its gripping storyline, strong performances, and suspenseful atmosphere. It delves into the complex relationship between Graham and Lecter and explores the nature of evil and the human psyche.