As frequent readers know, I have published a number of articles in search of information about the original prop masks made for and worn by Anthony Hopkins in The Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal, and Red Dragon films as well as analysis of those purported to be, and other related issues (see Market Watch | Hannibal Lecter Masks). I was today contacted by Ed Cubberly, who identified himself as the creator of the original mask made for The Silence of the Lambs.
He was kind enough to discuss the content of my articles, the creation of the original mask, and concerns he has about infringement of his copyright on the mask itself (he is the copyright owner of the unique design).
Mr. Cubberly has a page on his website with the background on the creation of the mask, and I would encourage readers to check it out:
He said he does not own the original mask made for the film.
In an unrelated recent development (discussed on the Original Prop Community forum – see “Hannibal Lecter Mask” – registered members only), Entertainment Weekly published a special feature titled “Heroes and Villains” which featured several actors who portrayed famous villains in film, including Anthony Hopkins. The photographer contacted me prior to the shoot, looking for an original mask, and the one ultimately used has been described as the original mask from Silence of the Lambs, though I have not personally been able to match this up to shots and stills from the film.
Below are scans from the issue:
Below are cropped stills from both The Silence of the Lambs (TOP) and Hannibal (BOTTOM) for comparison:
As always, if you have information relevant to this ongoing research, please publish a “Reader Comment” below, join the “Original Prop Community” to discuss with other collectors, or contact me.
Jason De Bord