“There’s no way”: Julianne Moore Refused to Do 1 Thing for Hannibal After Jodie Foster Refused to Return
When Julianne Moore took on the role of FBI Agent Clarice Starling in 2001’s Hannibal, she faced immense pressure. After all, Jodie Foster had won an Oscar for originating the role in 1991’s acclaimed The Silence of the Lambs. With Foster refusing to return for the sequel, Moore had to make the part her own. In a recent interview, Moore admitted feeling daunted about succeeding in such an iconic performance. However, she refused to simply imitate Foster’s Clarice.
How Did Julianne Moore Handle Replacing a Legendary Role?
Julianne Moore, known for films like Still Alice and Boogie Nights, is widely considered one of the greatest actresses of her generation. But filling Foster’s shoes in Hannibal proved uniquely challenging. According to Slash Film,
“Of course I felt pressure!” Moore confessed. “Jodie Foster is absolutely iconic and is one of my favorite performers ever.”
Knowing she could never replicate Foster’s acclaimed take, Moore took a different approach. As she stated, “I’m like, I’m not gonna be Jodie. There’s no way. And I’m not in that movie, I’m in this movie.”
With Hannibal director Ridley Scott also new to the franchise, they were essentially creating something entirely fresh rather than remaking The Silence of the Lambs. This gave Moore the confidence to make Clarice her own.
How Did Anthony Hopkins Help Julianne Moore Feel at Ease On Set?
Fortunately, Moore also had the brilliant Anthony Hopkins returning as the sinister yet charming Dr. Hannibal Lecter. His playful presence on set helped put Moore at ease.
She recalled one tense scene where Hannibal appears ready to stab Clarice. But Hopkins broke the tension, leaning in and slyly asking, “Isn’t this fun?”
According to Moore, “Anthony Hopkins is a brilliant actor, absolutely brilliant, who has a tremendous sense of play.”
His smiles and good humor during gory scenes signaled to Moore that she needn’t take things too seriously. Hopkins seemingly gave his blessing for Moore to interpret Clarice in her own way.
Why Was Julianne Moore Wise to Avoid Imitation?
Ultimately, Moore was wise not to imitate Foster’s take, as a direct comparison would have been inevitable. Allowing the portrayal to be her own opened up creative possibilities.
And while some fans were initially skeptical of seeing someone besides Foster as Clarice, Moore brought the same dedication and talent that have marked her stellar career. Her refreshing take remains compelling viewed on its own merits.
By refusing to replicate Foster and leaning on Scott and Hopkins’ support, Moore delivered a strong, original Clarice. She proved that with creativity and courage, even iconic roles can be reinterpreted and reimagined successfully.
