The original post: /r/television by /u/anho456 on 2026-03-08 12:56:19+00:00.
After watching the two shows back to back I appreciate them both, but there are certain similarities. I know its not fair to compare a 19 season episodic cop show like Criminal Minds to a 3 season show like Hannibal, but the similar subject matter invites this comparison.
First of there is the episodic nature of Criminal Minds that makes it repetitive after a few seasons, also making it quite easy to guess who the killer is. The episodic nature also makes the actual profiling seem rushed and almost like a super power.
Hannibal on the other hand has an overarching story while still having a central plot to each episode. This allow for a bigger mystery, more twists and ultimately more breathing room.
Beyond all this, Hannibal is also better written, better acted and arguably more interesting characters.