Dramatic Irony
Dramatic irony in a film occurs when the audience knows something or is aware of something that the character on the screen. The result is usually a ramping up of tension and the film does a masterful job of this in the cross-cutting sequence in which an FBI team is descending upon what they believe is the killer’s home while Clarice, alone, is questioning neighbors of a victim. The editing kicks the irony to another level by leading the audience to believe one thing only to reveal another: Clarice is really at the house of Buffalo Bill, but doesn’t know it.
The Pen
The smugly pompous Chilton warns Clarice what cannot be taken into the dungeon with her when she first arrives to speak with Lecter. One of the forbidden items is a pen which stimulates the later irony of Lecter managing his escape by stealing a pen…from Chilton. Further adding to the irony is how Lecter managed to furtively procure the pen considering the lengths to which the authorities have gone to strap him down.
Chilton v. Lecter
Perhaps the most grotesque irony in the film is the men Starling meets at the facility imprisoning the very worst of the worst: Chilton and Lecter. Despite one being entrusted with keeping a psychopathic cannibal safely away from the public, it is Chilton who comes off as significantly less appealing in every way. In fact, so repulsive is Chilton, he might even place behind Miggs.
Buffalo Bill
“Buffalo” Bill Cody was the epitome of masculinity as a military scout, buffalo hunter and wild west showman. The serial killer who has been nicknamed Buffalo Bill is an effeminate cross-dresser building a “woman suit.” Irony complete.
Accidentally Infamous
Jame Gumb’s motivation for serial killing is to gather the skins to make that “woman suit.” He is a serial killer with a purpose, in other words, and is not committing heinous crimes out of any desire to become famous or infamous. Ironically, of course, he becomes just that by attaining nationwide notoriety for the completely accidental and coincidental abduction of the daughter of a U.S. Senator.
