‘Manhunter’: Psycho Thriller

In “Manhunter,” directed by Michael Mann (“Miami Vice,” “Crime Story”) and based on the Thomas Harris novel “Red Dragon,” Will Graham (William Petersen) is a burned-out cop who returns to the force to catch a psychopathic serial killer. Graham has a special “talent”: He can think the way a psychopath would. But as a result of his dedication to previous cases, he has had to spend some time in a mental hospital.

This time around, the killer works on a lunar cycle and wipes out entire families. Graham is disturbed that his ability to adopt the psycho mind-set--the rediscovery of the killer instinct within himself--comes so easily.

The psychopaths are the most interesting characters here. Brian Cox is particularly chilling as the ingenious Dr. Lector, the man who sent Graham over the edge in his last case. And with the current wacko, known as “the Tooth Fairy,” the insanity seems to intensify as more and more clues are discovered. One of the most frightening aspects of the crimes is the seeming logic that connects them; it’s as unsettling as the viciousness.

Speaking of which: Although these murders are bloody and violent, there is minimal slash action. Most of the gore is seen after the fact. There’s plenty of scare value, but it derives mostly from the intense suspense and the discovery of the Tooth Fairy’s bizarre motive.

The music in “Manhunter” is notable. Performed for the most part by Shriekback, it provides a Gothic, Gregorian-chantlike background. The crowning glory is the use in the climactic scene of “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” by Iron Butterfly. The soundtrack seems to answer the question: What kind of music would a psychopath like?

“Manhunter” (1986), directed by Michael Mann. 120 minutes. Rated R.