Stow the skepticism, this show is brilliant.

The best in the series since the iconic Silence of the Lambs, this a prequel based on Thomas Harris first novel of the series Red Dragon, a re-telling of the Red Dragon movie which glossed over Graham catching Lecter leading to the events of Silence of the Lambs.

The problem with doing prequels and sequels to this iconic movie has always been, who can play Lecter other than Hopkins, who can forget his brilliantly improved hiss after describing a meal of brains? Mads Mikkelsen instead of impersonating Hopkins like other Lecters, totally owns the role. He is both charming, eccentric, posh and endearing, whilst secretly being insane, conniving manipulative and twisted.

I can't think of a better horror TV show past or present, this show gives off a vibe akin to the old X-files in terms of suspense.

Let's break it down:

Acting: Phenomenal all round,

Fishburne and Mikkelsen are master strokes of casting, Hugh Dancy is brilliant also, but I feel these two make for a stunning mentor relationship akin to the Angel and Devil on Dancy's shoulders pushing and prodding him along.

Hugh Darcy deserves massive credit, he is damaged by his ability to empathize with serial killers, and obsessed by catching them, unlike everyone else though he seems to sense off moments in Lecter's character unlike anyone else in the show.

Cinematography: Above and beyond what we expect from a network television show, setting the bar very, very high. Scenes are masterfully constructed, the dream sequences eerie and the gore is sickening. True horror at its best.

Sound: A good soundtrack, but special mention of the atmospherics, subtle uses of sound to build tension all point to a class A horror film.

Writing: The dialogue is great, and in character, for many scenes are just interplay between characters the strength in the writing really shines through. I for one will remain glued to the screen as we watch the go-between Graham and Lecter, wondering when he will finally catch on.

To sum up, this is the best horror/thriller TV show, perhaps ever, deeper than the gore porn most series have regurgitated up, and if it continues on such a strong vein, will unseat Dexter (which let us be honest, is losing it) as the best thriller/horror on TV.

Far from a procedural cop show, as one might first assume this is a masterclass in television production. Get hooked.