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Jodie Foster's performance in 'The Silence of the Lambs' may be considered one of her most defining roles today, but the Oscar-winning actress admits she wasn't always confident the psychological thriller would find its audience.
The 62-year-old star attended the New York Film Festival recently for the screening of her latest project, 'A Private Life,' directed and co-written by Rebecca Zlotowski. The French-language drama marks Foster's third film in the language and continues to showcase her versatility as an actress and filmmaker.
Jodie Foster and Her 'The Silence of the Lambs' Experience
Looking back, Foster shared that few projects feel special from the start, yet 'The Silence of the Lambs' was one of those rare experiences that did. She recalled the deep connection among the cast and crew, describing how the atmosphere on set made everyone aware they were creating something truly meaningful.
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
Released in 1991, 'The Silence of the Lambs' was directed by the late Jonathan Demme and adapted by Ted Tally from Thomas Harris’s 1988 novel. Foster starred as Clarice Starling, an ambitious FBI trainee determined to catch a serial killer with the help of imprisoned psychiatrist Dr Hannibal Lecter, played by Anthony Hopkins.
Despite the film's now-iconic status, Jodie Foster admitted that the team had doubts about how audiences would react. Still, she felt proud of the film's substance and remains gratified that it continues to resonate more than three decades later.
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
Jodie Foster's Second Oscar Win
The movie went on to earn over $130 million at the box office and swept the five major Academy Award categories—Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay—a rare feat in Oscar history. Foster's win marked her second Oscar after 'The Accused' in 1989, while Hopkins earned his first for his unforgettable portrayal of Lecter.
Anthony Hopkins's on 'The Silence of the Lambs' Making
Hopkins has also reflected fondly on the film’s beginnings. While performing in a London stage production, he received the script from his agent and was immediately captivated after reading the first few pages. He instantly recognised the brilliance of the role and felt instinctively drawn to Lecter's complexity—a character he later brought to life with chilling precision.
Director Jonathan Demme was reportedly convinced Hopkins was perfect for the part after their first conversation. Hopkins has since described his connection to the role as intuitive, explaining that he understood Lecter's isolation and intelligence on a profound level.
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
The acclaimed actor has also spoken warmly about working with Jodie Foster, praising her professionalism and down-to-earth attitude on set. Known for her focused and practical approach to filmmaking, Foster continues to be celebrated for her authenticity and talent—qualities that helped make 'The Silence of the Lambs' a timeless cinematic masterpiece.
As the film approaches its 35th anniversary, both Jodie Foster and Hopkins remain proud of their work and the lasting cultural impact of a movie that once carried so much uncertainty.
