That's Agent Starling to You

Well, damn, I think I have a new crime show to watch. I had forgotten they were making a “Silence of the Lambs” sequel-of-sorts for TV. But here it is, all ready to scare the bejesus out of us. The new series picks up sixth months after the events of “Silence of the Lambs” and follows Clarice Starling as she continues her fledgling career with the FBI.

I’m not familiar with Aussie actress Rebecca Breeds. But in the trailer her Jodie Foster is, mmm, fine. It lacks the deep tones, but then there’s only one Jodie Foster. But I’m more excited to see Devyn A. Tyler playing fellow FBI agent and Clarice’s “Silence” academy BFF/maybe more Ardelia Mapp.

First, bringing Agent Mapp in as a series regular brings needed and welcome diversity to the show. They have promised to make her more than just the Black Best Friend, so let’s hope they really do. And second, I always liked Clarice and Ardelia’s friendship in the film. It was truly one of the only non-terrifying parts of the movie. And I can’t be the only one who got a very ‘90s era, uh yeah, she’s my “roommate” vibe from those two.

Details about the show I have read call them best friends again. But if they’re “just friends,” why does it appear Clarice is at Ardelia’s house quite early in the morning when she is still in a robe and drinking coffee?

The show also will have to thread the “Silence” needle because of a bizarre copyright split that also splits use of the characters from the film. You can either use the character of Hannibal Lecter or you can use the character of Clarice Starling, you can’t use them both together apparently. That’s why “Hannibal” never mentioned Clarice. That’s a pretty big leap, given how Clarice was going to have to live knowing Lecter was still out there and eating well – so to speak. But, honestly, I’d rather have Clarice than that liver and Chianti lover anyway.

I have no idea whether the show will be any good. I haven’t seen any reviews yet. It looks pretty gruesome, and to be honest after the past year and the year these first 13 days of 2021 have felt like, I don’t know how much horror I can handle. But, for Clarice, at least I’ll try.

p.s. Don’t think I missed Kris Holden-Ried/Dyson in there as what I think might be some sort of Big Bad metaphorical wolf.

p.p.s. I feel like a show about chasing monsters feels right for this moment, and in particuar this day. After all, we’ve got a monster of our own to vanquish today.