Naka-choko (Hannibal)
Will and Hannibal share a meal of uncertain origin.
"Naka-choko" is the tenth episode of the second season of the psychological thriller–horror series Hannibal, and the 23rd overall episode. It was written by executive producer Steve Lightfoot from a story by Lightfoot and Kai Yu Wu, directed by Vincenzo Natali, and first broadcast on May 2, 2014, on NBC. The episode continues the series' focus on the relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a forensic psychiatrist who becomes his enemy.
- Series
- Hannibal
- Season
- 2
- Episode number
- 10
- Air date
- May 2, 2014
- Network
- NBC
- Director
- Vincenzo Natali
- Writers
- Steve Lightfoot, Kai Yu Wu
Lore & Background
The episode revolves around the discovery of Randall Tier's mutilated body displayed at a museum. Will Graham had killed Tier in self-defense after Tier broke into his home, and he brought the body to Lecter. The two analyze the crime scene while concealing their involvement. Meanwhile, Margot Verger learns of her brother Mason's plan to father a child with her to secure the family inheritance. Lecter suggests Margot could get pregnant as revenge, leading her to have sex with Will Graham, intercut with Lecter and Alana Bloom having sex.
Reader's Guide
The episode received mostly positive reviews, with critics praising Michael Pitt's performance as Mason Verger and the character development, though some expressed frustration at its pace. According to Nielsen Media Research, it was seen by an estimated 2.28 million household viewers and gained a 0.9/4 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode's title refers to a palate cleanser in a kaiseki meal, reflecting its role in clearing the way for Mason's plotline. The episode ends with Lecter and Graham debating good and evil while eating meat that Graham suggests is "long pig," implying it may be from Freddie Lounds.
Did You Know?
- Michael Pitt joined the series to play Mason Verger, described as 'an unstable wealthy patient of Dr. Hannibal Lecter.'
- The episode was watched by 2.28 million viewers, a 7% decrease from the previous episode.
- The title 'Naka-choko' refers to a palate cleanser in a kaiseki meal, as noted by a critic.
More in Hannibal episodes 1-24
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