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IMDB
Breaking Apart
TV Series | 2023– | TV-14 | 50m
Fiction | Dark Fantasy | Psychological Drama | Tragedy
Breaking Apart follows enemies Mikael and Ezra through a dizzying mix of dystopian cities, elegant ballrooms, crumbling towers, and much more. The two men have opposing missions, but after Mikael’s hesitation allows Ezra to escape his grasp, they’re fated to keep crossing paths.
Season 2 is out now.
Stars: Hannibal Lecter ❘ You
@breakingapart
Looking for Season 2? Breaking Apart is now streaming on select platforms. Eye contact not included. (Or is it?)👁️
[eyecolor.mp4: A clip from an interview with Hannibal and you. The two of you sit next to each other in well-tailored suits, slight smiles on your faces as the interviewer continues with their next question.
Interviewer
So, in keeping on theme with the questions so far, what color are his eyes, Hannibal?
You adjust the flip-sign that you were given, which reads “True” on the front and “False” on the back. You use it to obstruct your face, so that he can’t see your eyes.
Hannibal
(amused)
Ah. A trick question. One that can’t be answered with this sign.
Of course, it doesn’t seem to matter that you’ve hidden your face. Hannibal still answers correctly. With almost no hesitation.
Interviewer
All right, and let’s see the reveal…
You let the sign fall to your side and blink exaggeratedly.
You
He got it.
(looking over at Hannibal)
Nice job.
Hannibal
It wasn’t difficult.]
189k likes | 90.8k retweets
Replies:
@greatdient: they’re so in love, idc what anyone says
@seleneyer: feels like we’re interrupting something
→ @bloopdooptroop: right? like do y’all need a room? 😭😭😭
@seokjinniestan: hannibal could have chemistry with a brick
→ @roliviaodrigo: seriously tho
@nickthegrapez: idk who i want to be more
→ @purplenurple3: THIS
YouTube
@universalstudios
Breaking Apart: Season 2 recap
After discussing some of the general themes of the show’s second season, the interviewer changes tracks.
Interviewer
And what do we think about a third season?
You
Morally… no. I’m against it.
I don’t think everything needs to have a third and fourth and fifth season, you know? Everyone always wants a happy ending, or just an ending that gives them closure. But when something ends in uncertainty, that’s even better—at least to me. It allows for unique interpretation; it challenges the viewer to come to their own conclusions.
Hannibal
…Very well put.
You
Thanks.
(smiling after a brief pause)
But, y’know, depending on how much money they offer…
You all laugh.
You
I’m sorry, I completely stole that question. What do you think, Hannibal?
Hannibal
No apologies necessary.
I agree with you. However, I would be very curious to see my character more fleshed out in another season. We didn’t really get a chance to explore Mikael’s whole backstory in Season 2.
You
That’s true. It would be interesting to see a character-driven narrative, especially since the large-scale conflict has seemingly died down. Seemingly.
YouTube
@buzzfeed
The Lead Actors of ‘Breaking Apart’ read Thirst Tweets
Hannibal and you sit next to one another, a white background cast behind you. You exchange an amused look.
You
(turning to the camera)
This should be interesting. I’m sure there’s no shortage of Hannibal thirst tweets out there, but I’m hoping you had to go digging for mine. Hopefully. (crossing fingers)
Hannibal
There will be plenty for you, I am certain. Shall I start us off?
You
Go for it.
Hannibal puts his hand in a blue patterned jar, pulling out a long slip of paper with a Tweet printed out on it.
Hannibal
(eyes flitting about the paper, before he turns to look at you)
Ah. The first one reads: ‘I want to bite you so bad’
You
Uh… what? Why are you looking at me?
Hannibal
Because it’s for you. See?
He holds the paper out to you. You read it.
You
Jesus. And hey, you missed some. Can’t forget the “plsplsplsplpls” at the end. That’s censorship.
Hannibal
Of course, my apologies.
You reach for a slip of paper in the jar.
You
This one says: ‘Hannibal Lecter is so fking fine i hope his Cheetos are FLAMING HOT like him’
Hannibal
(looking at you with a slight smile)
Well. Thank you, I think.
You
Don’t thank me, thank them. (motioning at the camera)
And I feel like Hannibal has probably never even tried Cheetos, let alone the flaming hot ones.
Hannibal
(eyes glimmering with amusement)
It’s true.
You
His delicate European taste buds would crumble into bits.
You pull the next slip of paper.
‘Step on me.’
Hannibal
(blinking owlishly)
Pardon?
You
Step on me. That’s all it says.
Hannibal
Oh.
…No thank you.
You smile and pull another paper.
Next one… ‘No, because you don’t understand. You don’t understand. You don’t UNDERSTAND. I need Hannibal Lecter like I need water, like I need air, like I need caffeine, like I need food and sunlight and and and and’
…Looks like it ends there.
Hannibal Lecter
That is… flattering, I suppose. Thank you.
You
Yeah, just take it as a compliment. Okay, I feel like we’re on a roll here, so I’m just going to keep going. These aren’t that bad so far—
You pull another slip of paper and start reading it, your eyes widening.
Hannibal
Care to share with the audience?
You
(fighting off laughter)
This one’s crazy. Just a fair warning. Very suggestive. Explicit.
Kids, if you’re watching this… Well, don’t. Go away. Plug your ears.
Hannibal
Don’t leave us in suspense.
You
(taking a deep breath)
Alright. Hannibal Lecter can—
You promptly break into laughter. Hannibal tries to peek at the card but you tilt it away from him.
Whew. Okay. I’m good. I can do this.
‘Hannibal Lecter can get it any hour of the day, any day of the week, any month of the year, any way, sideways, up and down, left to right—’
You promptly duck your head, laughing so hard it feels like you’re choking. The blank expression on Hannibal’s face isn’t helping.
Hannibal
Shall I finish it for you?
Hannibal leaves you no choice in the matter, taking the paper from your hand. He holds it up and recites the rest, while you’re struggling to keep it together. By the end, you’re practically in tears and Hannibal is just smirking slightly.
You
I need to take a lap.
You get to your feet and circle the film space. Hannibal watches you do this; you don’t seem to notice. Eventually, you return to your seat.
Okay. Wow. That was a lot.
Hannibal
(with a restrained smile)
Now it’s your turn.
You
No, just reading yours has been more than enough—!!
Hannibal turns in his chair so that he’s facing you. He makes eye contact even as he draws a slip of paper.
Oh no. I don’t like this…
Hannibal
(smirking, before looking up from the paper at you)
‘Make out with me in front of a church. And other ungodly things that I’d rather not leave on my digital footprint.’
You
(laughing)
That is what I went to Catholic school for.
Hannibal
(amused)
To make out with someone in front of a church? And other ungodly things?
You
Exactly.
You turn to the camera.
But seriously, sign me up. I want to give a priest an aneurysm.
Hannibal
I’m afraid they’ll have to get in line. (raises eyebrows at camera)
Next… ‘Ezra and Mikael are my dream threesome.’
You
That’s… mildly concerning.
Hannibal
Right. Probably more indicative of their mental state than they realize.
Hannibal pulls out another paper.
‘Who plays Ezra from Breaking Apart and where can I find boyfriend aesthetic pictures of him?’
You
Well, that’s me. And Pinterest, probably. You can find anything there. I don’t think I have many pictures like that, though…
Hannibal
(with unshakeable certainty)
You definitely do.
Next… ‘You made me realize I was gay’.
You
(wryly)
That was definitely written by a lesbian. As in, “you’re so vile that you turned me off the male gender entirely.”
Hannibal
No, but nice try.
You exchange a helpless glance with the camera.
Hannibal
This was written by a man. As in, “you’re so handsome you made me realize I’m attracted to men romantically.”
Hannibal pulls out another slip of paper. His eyes skin it for a moment before he throws it somewhere behind him. You blink.
I am not reading that one.
He pulls another.
Oh, this one has both of us. ‘I would pay real money to see you kiss.’
You
(playfully)
How much money are we talking?
Hannibal
(immediately)
How much money would it take?
You
I mean, our characters almost kissed in that one scene.
Hannibal
Almost being the key word in that sentence.
You
Yes, almost.
Hannibal
(glancing at the camera)
You’ll have to take that up with our agents, it seems.
You
Yes. Ooh, last one.
You pull out one last slip of paper.
‘Hannibal Lecter could punch me in the face and I’d give him both of my kidneys.’
Hannibal Lecter
I will not be punching anyone in the face, then.
You
Yeah, both kidneys is a bit crazy. You need at least one! But I guess that’s the whole point.
You sigh in relief.
Hannibal, we did it. We survived. How do you feel?
Hannibal
Objectified.
You
Ahaha. Same. But! (turning towards the camera)
We appreciate all your love and support! And if you haven’t already, go watch Breaking Apart on select streaming services now.
Hannibal
Thank you. Goodbye.
Trending
#BreakingApart
Related tags: #HannibalLecter, #ThirstTweets
@googoogagged
“I’m afraid they’ll have to get in line” are you JOKING?????? #ThirstTweets
→ @leothelioner: i’m dumb what does this mean
→ @tzuyusolosurfaves: ur not dumb! & this implies that there are other people waiting who want to do that, like Hannibal himself. That’s how it sounded to me, anyway
→ @leothelioner: Oh SHIT THANKSSS
@sportsladdy
was there some tension there or am i crazy #ThirstTweets
@ezrakael69
Hannibal fully turning in his chair and looking INTO HIS CO-STAR’S EYES as he read those #ThirstTweets… goodbye
@apartbreakinggg
Every time Ezra’s actor tried to be self-deprecating, #HannibalLecter didn’t let it happen 😭
→ @gratepaers: “that was probably written by a lesbian” and hannibal just going “no.” LOL
@justlikekiki
so we’re just supposed to believe they’re not dating…? #ThirstTweets #BreakingApart
[buzzfeed.jpgs: Four photos of Hannibal and you looking at one another.]
@chillycheese
“I am not reading that one” ok but WHAT DID IT SAYYYYY
→ @channibalchuckster: i bet my life it wasn’t about hannibal.
→ @chillycheese: omg like… he couldn’t read it abt his costar??? sobs he’s so in LOVE
→ @channibalchuckster: this is so true and so real
→ @purplepanther: genuinely think you’re onto something there. Because he had no qualms reading that explicit one about himself 😭
YouTube
@spotify
Make a playlist: Leading Men of Breaking Apart
Hannibal and you sit on camera, a whiteboard with ten slots between you.
You
Why we were chosen for this, I haven’t the faintest idea.
Hannibal
That’s neither here nor there.
You
I guess. This shouldn’t be as bad as the thirst Tweets, at least.
Hannibal
True. Now, I believe we each choose… five songs?
You
Yeah, about that… (looking somewhere off-camera) Do we just pick songs we like? Or is this supposed to be a certain vibe?
Producer
(from off-screen)
Just songs you’ve been enjoying recently. They don’t have to match one another.
You
Okay, good. Because Hannibal’s are all going to be classical pieces.
Hannibal
You know me so well.
The two of you are silent for a while as you write on your whiteboards.
You
(murmuring to yourself)
Wow, I am really chronically online. Damn.
Hannibal
Hm?
You
Oh, nothing. Just… about to make a fool of myself.
Hannibal
Just choose songs you like.
You
Easy for you to say. Yours are all sophisticated and whatnot.
Hannibal
So? I’m sure the fans would rather hear your honest choices.
You
(slightly unconvinced)
I guess…
The two of you finish up with your selections.
Producer
(from off-camera)
Perfect. Now if you could both take turns with revealing a song you’ve chosen and why you’ve chosen it. You can then write it in one of the slots on the board between you.
You
Cool, thanks.
Hannibal
I can go first, if you’d like.
You
Sure, go for it.
Hannibal
My first choice… is Bach’s Goldberg Variations.
You
Great.
Hannibal
You would probably know it if you heard it.
You
Eh… Maybe. I don’t want to make any promises.
Hannibal
I often listen to music while I’m cooking. I find it helps alleviate stress.
You
Oh yeah! Hannibal is a really good cook, guys. Chef. Whatever the fanciest word is.
Hannibal
Thank you.
You
He’s being humble about it, but he’s seriously really good. Like, his dishes take hours of preparation. Lots of patience.
Hannibal
I believe it’s your turn to pick a song.
You
Fine, fine. Just saying!
Okay. So this is going to be an absolutely incoherent playlist, but it’s fine.
My first song is The Moon Will Sing by the Crane Wives. I’ve been really into their music lately, and I love their lyrics. It’s got kind of a flowy vibe to it. Like… it’s happy, but melancholic too. I think their music always strikes that balance really well.
Hannibal is just staring at you silently. He doesn’t speak. You clear your throat.
Anyways. That’s my first pick.
You write it on the whiteboard between you before turning to Hannibal expectantly.
Hannibal
Right. My second choice is The Four Seasons by Vivaldi. I don’t have much more to say than that, I’m afraid.
You
It’s okay. We don’t have to go into rhetorical analysis for each one if we don’t want to. Right?
(You look at the producer off-camera, who evidently nods in agreement.)
Hannibal
Good. The piece doesn’t necessarily need explaining, either. It’s a classic.
You
Seems like most of yours are. Do you have a musical background?
Hannibal
Somewhat. I can play the piano, but my preferred instrument is the harpsichord.
You
Huh. I don’t think I’ve even heard of that one.
Hannibal
I’ll have to play for you some time.
You
Yeah, that would be great!
Hannibal
Your turn.
You
My second pick is My Iron Lung by Radiohead. It’s gritty, scratchy.
Hannibal
Scratchy?
You
Yeah. Kind of alternative… I guess? The song has an earthy feel to it. That’s the best way I can describe it.
You write it on the #4 slot.
Hannibal
My third choice is Mozart’s Apollo et Hyacinthus.
You
(squinting as if trying to remember something)
When Hyacinthus was dying, Apollo turned him into a flower. That’s where the hyacinth flower’s name came from, right?
There’s a long pause.
I know that’s, like, the Sparknotes version, but…
Hannibal
Yes. That’s correct.
You
(smirking at the camera)
See, I do know things. Sometimes. Very rarely.
Hannibal
Don’t sell yourself short.
You
…Okay.
Well, my third choice is Back to Me by the Marías. Again, not much explanation needed. I like the song; it’s dreamy and mellow, but also has a bit of yearning and longing in it. Your next choice, Hannibal?
Hannibal
Clair de Lune by Debussy.
You
Ooh, I really like that one.
Hannibal
Me too. Next?
You
My fourth choice is I Am The Dog by Sir Chloe. I’ve been digging her music lately.
Hannibal
Can’t say I’ve heard of her.
You
I would be very surprised if you had. She has around… one million monthly listeners or so? Technically it’s both the band’s name but also the singer’s name? I don’t know—I just know I love the music.
Hannibal
I will have to listen.
My final song choice is Dance of the Damned.
You
(eyes widening)
Wait. That song was used for Ezra and Mikael’s first encounter, wasn’t it? The ballroom scene?
Hannibal
Yes.
You
Oooh, the fans are going to go crazy for that. Why’d you choose it?
Hannibal
I like it. It was a great choice to accompany the scene. Plus, that was when we—our characters—first met.
You
Oh, wow, that’s true. That feels like forever ago, doesn’t it?
Hannibal
Yes. It does feel as if we’ve known each other for far longer than that.
You
I remember nearly knocking into one of the extras—they were posing as a servant, I think, so they were carrying drinks. That scene was actually difficult! It’s hard enough to navigate a crowded space like that, let alone while keeping your eyes glued to someone else the whole time.
Hannibal
Yes, that scene did require a few attempts, didn’t it?
You
Hey, easy for you to say. You just had to stand there. I had to keep weaving through the crowd.
Hannibal
True enough.
And what will be your final choice?
You
Ah, right. Rounding things off… is Tonight You are Mine by the Technicolors. I remember the first time I listened to this song. It was so magical. It’s dreamy, and it makes me want to stick my head out of the sunroof in a speeding car in a dark tunnel like a movie protagonist. You know?
You write it on the last slot of the whiteboard. The camera briefly zooms in to show the entire whiteboard, before panning back to the two of you again.
All right. And there’s our playlist. It will be a nightmare on shuffle.
Hannibal
That it will be. But I’m sure it has charm.
You
Yeah! Rough around the edges. She’s multi-faceted, you could say.
Hannibal huffs in amusement. The video fades out and muted footage of Hannibal and you idly chatting provides the background for the network’s ending card, which has links to other videos and a link to the show’s various social media accounts.
Comments:
Pinned comment |
@sevenmedia
Listen to their playlist here 👇
@maamplsstawp
when he knew the story of Apollo and Hyacinthus… Hannibal looked like he wanted to jump him
→ @hardyharrharr: LMAOOO
→ @gratatata: Jump him?? Like fight???
→ @anneioop: no, jump him like make out w him
→ @gratatata: OHHHH that makes more sense yeah
@madamsir
Ezra’s picks were based.
→ @hashtagstressed: ezra?? you mean his actor??
→ @giggityjiggitygoo: same thing bitch just different shapes
→ @hashtagstressed: ahaha family guy reference, i see what you did there. also nice username lmao
@sevenatenine
This feels strangely romantic. Just me?
→ @hellsbrethren: nope i think so too
→ @livrodrigobecryin: same
@rihannawhere
Hannibal tried to be humble about his cooking… bahahaha
→ @callyournamebyme: ahaha that was so cute when he was praising him
@girlkeepgateboss
“That was when we—our characters—first met.” THAT WASN’T SLICK
→ @diningwithlectre: LOL hannibal you aren’t smooth
→ @asrathemagician: that was actually so sweet 😭
INT. – A Comic Con panel with Hannibal and you. The two of you are situated next to each other with microphones. There’s a moderator off to the side and another crew member finding fans in the audience for questions. A few questions have been asked already, and the crew member has just found another fan with their hand raised.
Fan 5
So, as I’m sure you both know, many viewers resonated with Mikael and Ezra’s dynamic. Not in a literal sense, necessarily. But their dynamic is kind of… open-ended, I guess. I was wondering if you had any thoughts on that.
You
(looking to Hannibal for a second, who seems to be waiting for you to answer)
Sure. Well, I understand how many people see it as romantic. I think it can be—and it is—romantic to know a person so intimately, regardless of the exact nature of your dynamic. That’s why enemies-to-lovers type dynamics are so popular. Because if you know another person so deeply, and you recognize all of their faults, and you’re still staying… that says a lot.
With that in mind, I feel like we have to acknowledge the fact that queerness often relies on ambiguity in mainstream media, even these days. To be considered palatable to a general audience, queer identities are swept aside or unwritten altogether. And that’s very frustrating.
So, while Mikael and Ezra aren’t ever explicitly stated to be queer, I feel like it’s implied.
Besides, there’s absolutely an argument for, like… Heterosexual characters never have to “come out” and state their preferences for their sexuality to be validated. So just because these characters haven’t outright said “I’m gay,” or “I only like men,” or anything like that… That doesn’t mean they’re automatically straight.
It’s silent for a bit.
Moderator
That’s… Wow. Hannibal, anything to add?
Hannibal
I don’t believe so. I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Moderator
I agree. And I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say we appreciate your transparency.
There are assorted whoops and bursts of applause around the room.
Now, how about another fan question?
Fan 6
I have one! Have either of you ever read Ezra/Mikael fanfic?
You and Hannibal
(accidentally in-sync)
Yes.
The audience goes crazy, screams and cheers echoing throughout the room. You look over at Hannibal helplessly, only to find he’s already staring at you. You quickly look away, pretending you didn’t notice. The fans seem to need a moment to calm down, before the moderator is getting things back on track.
You
Absolutely. I love fanfiction.
Hannibal
I also enjoy reading it. I enjoy learning more about what people take from the story, and how fans interpret the characters. Because there are a lot of qualities about these two—Ezra and Mikael—that can be carried over into other settings, that can be challenged or even eradicated under pressure. I appreciate when fanfiction explores that.
You
Yeah. I read a really great one that had Ezra as a priest and Mikael as a skeptical parishioner. Things like that go so far past two characters. I mean, it was about so much more: organized religion and its antipathy to queerness, growing up in faith, grief… It was beautiful.
Hannibal
I think I read that one too. There was a more lighthearted piece recently with the two of them as rival medical students, and it was a fun read.
You
So long story short: yes, we read the fanfics, and yes, we see the fanart. And we greatly, greatly appreciate it. You all are so talented.
Twitter
Trending
Breaking Apart
Related tags: #Ezrakael, #Fanfic
@bjwritez
tell me why i wake up to a million notifs only to find that EZRA AND MIKAEL’S ACTORS HAVE READ MY FIC #Ezrakael
→ @ezraining: cONGRATS OMG
→ @hannibalcannibal: and you thought i was pranking you 🙄 congrats <3333
@ezrakael4l
And people wonder why these two are the only actors I can trust.
[comiccon.mp4: A recording of the ComicCon panel, trimmed to the part where you’re asked about Mikael and Ezra’s relationship dynamic.] #BreakingApart
@drhouseapologist
“I feel like we have to acknowledge the fact that queerness often relies on ambiguity in mainstream media, even these days. To be considered palatable to a general audience, queer identities are swept aside or unwritten altogether. And that’s very frustrating. So, while Mikael and Ezra aren’t ever explicitly stated to be queer, I feel like it’s implied.”
WHEN I TELL Y’ALL I LOVE THIS MAN #BreakingApart #Fanfic
→ @mikalechips: me too 😭 it’s sad that so many actors are quick to glance over things like this, to invalidate fans and their art forms. but he not only acknowledges us, but respects us and what we do. hell, he encourages us to find ourselves in the characters: to see ourselves in Ezra. DAMN i’m gonna go cry now
→ @drhouseapologist: wait me too :’( sobs
INT. — ComicCon fan signing.
Fan
Hey, guys! You were so great in Breaking Apart, oh my God. I loved it so much!
You
Thanks.
You try to keep your energy up, despite wanting nothing more than to collapse in exhaustion.
Fan
You’re my favorite.
You almost tune her out before you realize she’s speaking to you, not Hannibal.
You
(huffing good-naturedly)
Hey, Hannibal’s right there.
Fan
(far too quickly)
I know. I like you better.
You
(starting to grow uncomfortable)
I— um… okay. You want a picture with us?
Fan
Yeah! But just with you.
You
(frowning)
We’re a package deal, Hannibal and I.
It’s rude of her to be ignoring him like he’s not standing right there. You lock eyes with him over her shoulder and share a helpless look.
Fan
(imploringly)
Aw, come on.
She leans towards you in a way that almost seems suggestive. You’re not sure if you can control your expression anymore, if the complete discomfort and revulsion you’re feeling is showing on your face.
Kidding. Come on, you have to get closer! I don’t bite.
Then she latches her hand on your wrist. And you freeze.
Hannibal
(firmly)
That’s enough.
He removes her hand from your wrist.
Please ask before doing that.
Fan
(chastised)
Oh, right. I’m so sorry! Here, let’s just do… back-to-back, the three of us?
INT. — One of the rooms in the back of the ComicCon venue, after your fan signing is complete.
Hannibal and you entered silently, both needing a moment to compress.
You
(sighing)
I’m not made for this, Hannibal. I barely tolerate people touching me normally, let alone…
Hannibal
Strangers.
You just nod.
You
Thanks for saving me there, though. I appreciate it.
Hannibal
Anytime.
It’s not rude to assert your boundaries.
You
I know.
You do know that, but you can’t quite get yourself to feel that way at the moment. You rub your hands over your face. It’s been a long day.
You
(blurting out before you can stop yourself)
I think I’d go insane if you weren’t here.
Thankfully, Hannibal doesn’t immediately laugh at you for the remark. Instead, he just hums, his hand finding your shoulder.
Hannibal
Then I’ll make sure to stay.
That makes you smile, even in your distress. But it’s a flickering amusement, disappearing far too quickly. Leaving you empty again. You feel annoyed at yourself for not speaking up, sad for some reason.
Hannibal is standing in front of you now. You’ve been hiding your face from him, your head bowed a bit. But the way your hands are shaking is probably betraying your distress. There’s a quiet moment that drags on for eternity, with you hiding from Hannibal.
He squeezes your shoulder reassuringly and you drag your eyes up to him. You feel kind of pathetic, looking up at him from where you’re seated.
Hannibal has a sympathetic quirk to his lips. His hand slips away from you; his gaze remains fixed on you. It should make you nervous, but it’s weirdly comforting. After hours spent feeling as if you were masquerading as someone else, this is grounding. Hannibal’s next words are quiet but sure.
Hannibal
If you need me, I’m here.
Any feeble attempts at resistance quickly fall to dust in your chest. You’re moving before you can quite understand it yourself. But it doesn’t seem like you need to, because Hannibal is extending his arms and hugging you back.
You
(murmuring into his shoulder)
Sorry.
Hannibal
You have nothing to apologize for.
Hannibal’s grip is loose but firm enough for you to feel comforted, protected. As you stand there, the stress starts to seep out of you. You take another breath; it feels more measured than before. You want to stand there forever.
But life is not that generous, and you both have things to do and places to be.
Until then, you stay.
Instagram Story
@lecterhannibal
[espresso.mp4: A quick video of a carefully made espresso sitting on an elegant wooden table. Several books rest on the nearby surface, and a window overlooking city buildings can be seen. There’s a faint sound of music playing in the background.]
@namjoonismygod
HANNIBAL’S NEWEST ISNGATAGNMA SOTYR
→ @bitchnothankyou: ahaha… what?
→ @namjoonismygod: HANNIBAL’S NEWEST INSTAGRAM STORY
→ @bitchnothankyou: what about it?
→ @namjoonismygod: watch it on full volume and you’ll understand
→ @bitchnothankyou: OH MY GOD
→ @namjoonismygod: there you go. That’s the energy you should’ve had from the beginning.
→ @willowtreez: wait i don’t get it
→ @namjoonismygod: if you turn it up all the way, you can hear the song playing in the background. it’s “the moon will sing” by the crane wives. WHICH ezra’s actor listed as one of his favorite songs in the playlist video with hannibal.
→ @willowtreez: HOLY SHIT
→ @namjoonismygod: I KNEOW
YouTube
@betweentwoferns
Between Two Ferns: Lead Actors of Breaking Apart
Interviewer
Hannibal, first things first. Your name rhymes with cannibal.
I guess that’s why this series ate itself alive.
You burst out laughing. It shouldn’t be that funny. But the straightforward nature of the remark, coupled with this foolish setup and the completely blank expression on Hannibal’s face…
You
(wiping at your eyes)
Whew.
Interviewer
Low-hanging fruit there…
On a more serious note, Hannibal, if you didn’t have an accent, do you think people would be able to tell that you’re not a very good actor?
Silence. Icy. You shoot a glance at Hannibal. He doesn’t even look frustrated or annoyed, just… pensive. Blank.
Interviewer
I also notice that there’s no blood on your face today. Is everything okay?
Hannibal
…
…
No.
Interviewer
As I thought.
Sensing you’re the easier target, the interviewer moves to you.
Interviewer
And you.
You
Oh God.
At that, Hannibal does crack a smile.
Interviewer
I mean, let’s address the elephant in the room.
You
Okay. Hi.
Interviewer
…
You
Get it? You’re the elephant.
A few seconds of quiet.
Interviewer
What kind of potion did you give Hannibal, to ensure he’s always with you at these things? Hannibal, blink twice if you’re in need of assistance.
You look over at Hannibal with a grin, finding that he’s just staring dead-on without blinking. You laugh.
You
Yeah, I have a leash for him. And an ankle monitor.
Hannibal nods sincerely, playing along.
Interviewer
Speaking of Breaking Apart… I mean, seriously. When are you guys gonna break apart? This little duo has been everywhere. We’re all sick of you.
A few seconds of silence.
And if you’re not going the break-up route, then you might want to get a move on before gay marriage is criminalized again.
That one actually makes you choke on a breath.
You
(jokingly)
The clock is ticking.
Interviewer
Hannibal, some people have it all. Looks… talent… How does it feel to only have looks?
Hannibal doesn’t respond.
You
(without missing a beat)
How does it feel to have neither?
Sorry. I just wanted to get that out, before you said it to me. Stole your line.
Silence.
Interviewer
Who are you again?
You
Sorry, please, go on. We’d love to hear what you have to say, through your small microphone.
Interviewer
Average-sized microphone.
You
I’m sure you think so.
(looking around the room)
I mean, how long has this show been on? Ten years? And white duct tape over clothing is the best you could do?
Interviewer
Seventeen years, thank you very much.
You
You haven’t aged a day.
Hannibal seems to be fighting a smile.
Although I guess that’s just because you started as an old man. Nice trick there.
Interviewer
Are you going to let Hannibal get a word in edgewise? Or is the editor going to have to cut around your sparkling personality?
You
(silently motioning for them to continue)
Interviewer
Finally. Now, Hannibal, can I borrow one or two of your sperms?
Hannibal
No, you may not.
Interviewer
All right. It’s just what was written on the card, I have to read it.
…Just for research purposes.
Hannibal
I believe you’re thinking of stem cells.
Not sperm.
It’s dead silent.
Hannibal
It’s an amateur mistake.
Interviewer
And that is all the time we have. I have. Sorry, I just can’t listen to you speak without thinking that you’re gargling marbles.
He looks at the camera with a grimace. The video ends.
Replies:
@user1983975: they were such good sports 😭😭
@sableyez: hannibal looked so done,,, meanwhile ezra’s actor was laughing his ass off
@heypizzazz: “Let’s address the elephant in the room.” “Hi.” Ezra’s actor was a bit too quick with that one LOL
@darth.hater: ezra’s actor ate him tf up i fear 😭😭😭
@channibaleclecter: hannibal seemed a bit too excited about a leash LMFAO
@elle
When you try to prank call your costar and it backfires…
[elleinterview.mp4: A short clip of one of your interviews. Transcript:
Interviewer
Prank call the last person you texted.
You
(defeatedly)
…It’s definitely Hannibal. Damn it.
Okay. I can do this.
You tap on your phone a few times and put the phone on speaker, briefly showing the camera before holding it face-up. The tone rings once, before it ends.
Hannibal
(from over the phone)
Hello. To what do I owe the pleasure?
You
(visibly panicking)
Hello, Mr. Lecter. We’re calling about your car’s extended warranty—
Hannibal
No thank you.
You
Wait, wait, wait! It’s me.
Hannibal
I know. I have your contact saved.
You
Oh. Right. Damn it.
Well, answer a question for me, then.
Hannibal
Sure.
You
Is a hot dog a sandwich?
Hannibal
Is that what you called me to ask?
You
(sighing in defeat)
No. I’m prank calling you. Well, I was supposed to be. For ELLE.
Hannibal
I figured as much. You never call me.
You
(looking at the camera with a wide-eyed expression)
Oh! Well, now this is just embarrassing.
Hannibal
It’s all right. I know you don’t like phone calls.
You
God, how did this turn into me being the victim? Stop it, Hannibal, you’re making me look pathetic.
Hannibal
(joking)
That is not very hard to do.
You
Okay, that’s more than enough from you. Bye, Hannibal.
You hang up the phone before looking at the camera. It’s quiet for a moment before you just hide your face in your hands. ]
Replies:
@user185732: “you never call me” PLSSSSS sir
@godsplanwutwashetakin: hannibal hit him with the uno reverse 😭😭
@krakenscove: @ejmarie unfortunately us
BREAKING APART
SEASON 3
EPISODE 8
TITLE: BEGINNING TO END
P. 26 (cont’d)
MIKAEL
You knew this was going to happen, didn’t you?
EZRA
No, that’s not—
MIKAEL throws the bottle in his hand. It hits the wall near EZRA’S head and he flinches.
EZRA
I can’t keep doing this. I’m not your punching bag.
EZRA drags his foot back slightly, reluctant to leave but willing to do so anyway. His shoe scuffs against the ground, making a slight screeching sound. MIKAEL’S eyes track the movement, but he remains in place.
EZRA leaves.
“You knew this was going to happen, didn’t you?” Hannibal says furiously. Each and every scene you do with him is just another reminder of how talented he is. He fully becomes Mikael, embodies him in every single moment he’s on screen. The audience will love it, you’re sure.
“No, that’s not—” you say helplessly, channeling all of the frustration and helplessness Ezra would be feeling in the situation. Hannibal is supposed to throw the bottle now, and it takes all of your resistance not to flinch before it hits the wall.
There’s a harsh snap and a sudden pain on the side of your face. The bottle must’ve hit you. From what you can guess, the majority of it still hit the wall behind you—but some of it grazed past your cheekbone. You think there’s a slight gash on your cheek, maybe a scratch on the edge of your ear. It’s prickling and stinging.
Stay in character, you say to yourself internally. For the love of everything, stay in fucking character.
You stare ahead at Hannibal. Your ears are ringing. You can feel the blood dripping down the side of your face. “You said you’d never hurt me,” you say gravely. The words cling to the air. Your character has finally reached his breaking point. “You promised.”
Hannibal looks lost for words. “I—” he breaks off, evidently thrown by the ad-lib and the impromptu turn this scene has taken. Even amidst this unpredictability, he channels all of Mikael’s irritation and remorse.
Your boot scuffs against the ground behind you. You turn in a harsh jerk and take a few steps to walk away.
“Cut!” the director yells.
You can’t so much as bring a hand to your cheek before there’s a hand on your wrist, turning you around. Hannibal’s eyes are wide with panic. This may just be the most emotion you’ve ever seen him possess off-screen. He looks remorseful, almost frantic.
“I am so sorry,” he says, his hands rising to cradle your jaw. Hannibal is not the type to look flustered or affected by anything, but you swear his hands are almost trembling. His eyes rove over your face. “Are you all right?”
“Yeah, I’m good—” you try to say.
“I practiced that throw countless times; that never should have hit you,” he continues, clearly frustrated with himself. “I apologize.”
“Hannibal, it’s fine,” you reassure him quickly. You don’t blame him—things like this happen all the time. But you are touched by his concern, you have to admit. “I know it was an accident,” you continue.
“That doesn’t matter,” Hannibal asserts. His hand remains on your jaw, his thumb gliding across your cheekbone. You almost choke on your next breath. The fervency of his gaze really isn’t helping. “Let me see,” he urges you, tilting your head to the side.
You don’t need to be able to see the wound to know there’s blood dripping down your cheek. Hannibal inhales sharply, his other hand curling as his fingers test the skin near the gash. “Does it hurt?”
“A bit,” you admit. Hannibal is standing very close. “It’s just a scratch.” It stings a bit, but you’ll live. It’s hardly a mortal wound.
A crew member bustles over, a first aid kit in hand. Hannibal’s hands remain on your face, even as he turns towards them. “Thank you,” he says politely, with a slight nod. “I’ll do it.” Hannibal takes the first aid kit from the crew member and thanks them once more, before turning towards you.
“You should sit,” he suggests. An objection is lodged in your throat. You let it die, too overwhelmed and unsure in the face of Hannibal’s commanding certainty. He leads you to the corner nearby, guiding you to sit before tilting your head to the side again and studying the wound. “It’s not too deep, fortunately.”
“I told you, it’s fine,” you try to maintain. He just shoots you a disbelieving look and you fall silent as he patches you up.
Twitter
@cigaretteahegao
wait wait wait bc,,, doesn’t hannibal look genuinely surprised here??? #BreakingApart
→ @coldbrewnt: hear me out: i think that’s acting.
→ @cigaretteahegao: I KNOW NO but still!!! Like, he looks *actually* surprised.
→ @coldbrewnt: sureeeee whatever
→ @cigaretteahegao: YOU’LL LEARN. ONE DAY YOU’LL LEARN> >>!
@breakingapart
In honor of Breaking Apart’s birthday, here’s some never-before-seen footage!
[bts.mp4: Behind-the-scenes footage of Hannibal and you filming the interaction between Ezra and Mikael. You can be seen running through it once smoothly, before the director asks for it once more. This time, the bottle hits the wall but grazes you instead. Your ad-libbed lines surprise Hannibal but he stays in character. Then, just as you leave, the director yells “Cut!” Hannibal rushes towards you.]
→ @rodrigobecryin: Oh my fucking god are you serious
→ @odearfinnick: THIS WASN”T SCRPTED???? OFMMDGJDFLKGBDFHKJGHDFDJGH
→ @lawlightagenda: GUYS WAITIWIAWIIIWIAIIAIIAIAIIAIAIT
→ @anneioop: WHAT AHWHWAHTHA WHAWT HWOHWOW HWO HWHWA T
Trending
Bottle Scene
Related tags: #Ezrakael, #HannibalLecter, #BreakingApart
@cigaretteahegao
And what did i say. And what did i say. What. did . i. Say. #BottleScene
[twt.jpg: A screenshot of a Tweet from the user a few months prior, reading: “wait wait wait bc,,, doesn’t hannibal look genuinely surprised here?]
@missstevenuniverse
So you’re telling me that Hannibal accidentally threw the bottle at his co-star. Then immediately rushed over to ensure he was okay. CRADLING his FACE in his HANDS. Fingers across the cheekbones, at the edge of the jaw. You’re telling me… GODDDDDDDDDD #BreakingApart #HannibalLecter
→ @thworppp: the way his eyes were shining in the scene too. he looked moments away from ending the scene himself
→ @gratatatat: THIS
@lollipoppedoff
the moment i saw that bts footage, i knew what i had to do.
[ezrakael.jpg: A long strip of fanart in comic form, depicting Ezra and Mikael as actors rehearsing a scene just as Hannibal and you were. The moment the director ends the scene, Mikael is surging forward and checking on Ezra.]
@isuglbttttttq
#HannibalLecter taking the first aid kit from the crew member so he could patch it up himself 😭
→ @tmntluvr: ushering him away like he’s mortally wounded… sigh… when is it my turn
@mamacomehereee
me to my grandkids when i’m 80: i was there when the bottle hit his face. i was there. #BottleScene
Variety Magazine
The Breaking Apart Interview: Bottles and Birthdays
[Transcript from 06:15:
I mean, I have to ask. Everyone wants to know: was that bottle throw really unscripted?
You: Well, sort of. It was written in the script: Mikael throws it at the wall.
Hannibal: I was supposed to throw it at the wall. I’d practiced dozens of times before even filming the scene, because I didn’t want to hurt him.
It wasn’t meant to hit him, you’re saying?
Hannibal: Correct. That part was not scripted. And I nearly ruined it after.
You: You did seem shocked. I felt kind of bad, honestly. I didn’t want you to think I was mad or something.
H: You would’ve had a right to be mad. But I get the feeling you’re too forgiving for that.
Y: You’re making me sound like a saint. In reality, I just had this moment of clarity, where I was like: oh. This could change everything. I was pretty much screaming at myself to stay in character, to pretend like I didn’t even notice.
Did it hurt?
Y: Not really.
H: You can tell the truth.
Y: I mean, it didn’t feel good. But it was hardly unbearable. If I was well and truly hurt, if the pain ever got that bad, I wouldn’t have kept going.
Ah. Well, it sounds like it was… I don’t want to say a happy accident. Maybe the better way to phrase it is that you two capitalized on the moment.
H: Yes, I suppose so. The credit really goes to my costar here. I would’ve probably stopped filming.
Y: Hannibal keeps beating himself up about it, but I’ve told him it’s fine.
H: It was very close to your eye. It could’ve scarred, caused permanent damage—
You just sigh. The interviewer laughs.
Regardless, that scene was just breathtaking. Kudos to the both of you, and everyone who has worked on the show. It seems like your hard work really paid off.
Y: I hope so.
Thank you both for taking the time to speak with me today. It was nice to meet you, and best of luck in your future projects.
Y: Thanks! It was nice to meet you too.
H: Thank you. It was a pleasure.]
Ah. The airport. Your least favorite place. It always feels like you shouldn’t be able to complain—not with the way you get private security checks to accompany your status as an actor. But still, the airport is the airport—crowds are the norm. And when you’re with Hannibal, the two of you always seem to draw wandering eyes. While you’re usually happy to know that Breaking Apart is getting the recognition you feel it deserves, you’re running on too little sleep and energy today. Not to mention, you’re not exactly looking your best. You’re wearing a simple sweatshirt and sweatpants with sneakers; a face mask covering the bottom half of your face and headphones resting on your ears.
Hannibal, on the other hand, looks like some sort of business god. He’s wearing a cardigan and slacks; his hair is perfectly styled, as always. He has a patient smile on his face as he nods at fans.
You feel like you’re a decomposing corpse next to him. And maybe you are. It feels like you’re decaying, at this point.
To make matters worse, Hannibal doesn’t even seem to care—hell, he has a hand on your upper arm as he guides you through the hall—your bodyguards ensuring no fans get too close. When you finally make it to your gate, you feel like melting into a puddle on the ground. It doesn’t help that you can feel people looking at you. You sigh and lean to rest your forehead on Hannibal’s shoulder for a selfish moment.
Hannibal
(unbothered by the physical contact)
Tired?
You
Yeah.
Your vision briefly turns grainy when you tilt your head back up too fast.
You?
Hannibal
(diplomatically)
A bit.
You
You don’t look it.
(muttering darkly)
Lucky.
Hannibal
You do look tired. It’s endearing.
You
(scoffing defensively)
Shut up.
You try to look annoyed, but you suspect it doesn’t work, because Hannibal just lets out an amused exhale.
And also, you’re welcome.
Hannibal
(with a hum)
Why should I be grateful?
You
Well, I look like a zombie next to you, which makes you look marginally better. So, y’know, you’re welcome. Seriously, why are you wearing formal clothes?”
Hannibal
(correcting you smoothly)
You do not look like a zombie, nor would I keep you around for such a foolish and incorrect notion.
He’s staring at you like you’re crazy. You nearly forget what you were even talking about. Your head feels a bit fuzzy, and you’re anxious for the flight.
You
(somewhat speechless)
Oh.
Hannibal
As for my clothing, this is what I always wear.
You
(teasingly)
You don’t have sweatpants, huh?
Hannibal
(with a slight smile)
Of course not.
You
(jokingly)
Of course not; how plebian.
Hannibal rolls his eyes.
INT. – The first-class section of the airplane.
You’ve since taken your face mask off and settled into your seat next to Hannibal on the plane. Fortunately, since the two of you are in first class, you only have to share space with each other. It’s relatively quiet now that all of the passengers have boarded.
The plane starts to take off, and your hand is moving to grasp Hannibal’s before you can contemplate the consequences. Fortunately, he only squeezes your hand reassuringly—evidently unbothered by the sudden physical contact. Though he does seem to frown for a moment.
Hannibal
You’re freezing.
His thumb glides across your knuckles and you try to fight off a shiver.
You
I run cold.
Hannibal doesn’t seem satisfied by this explanation and presses a hand to your forehead. Then he withdraws with a hum.
See? Told you.
For a while, the flight is fine. You read the book you brought, you try to watch some TV episodes you downloaded before the flight. But it’s only so long before the decongestant you took starts to wear off, and the pressure migraine begins. You eat the protein bar you packed and take some ibuprofen, but you know it’s going to take some time to kick in. And right now, your head is practically pulsing. You can feel your jaw aching, bolts of pain sliding through your teeth.
Something about your behavior must give your symptoms away, because Hannibal is staring. You’re practically sideways in your seat now, back awkwardly draped against the wall near the window. Trying to get comfortable is absolutely impossible. Absolutely impossible.
You’re certain you’d keep rustling around, if not for Hannibal’s gentle hand on your shoulder. His hand finds the nape of your neck, until he’s guiding you to rest your head against his shoulder. You blink and go with the gesture, surprised by how comfortable it is.
You
Thanks.
Sorry. You’re— You’re fine with this, right?
Hannibal
(shamelessly)
Absolutely.
The fondness in his voice pierces through the fatigue and exhaustion settling over you.
You’ll have to talk about that later. But right now, you’re close to nodding off.
You
Okay. If you change your mind—
Hannibal
I’m not changing my mind, sweetheart.
In fact, he only brings you closer, a hand on your waist as he guides you to rest against him.
You
Sweetheart? That’s new.
Not to mention, Hannibal has never been a particularly physical person. You’ve always been careful to respect his space and keep your distance. Until now.
Hannibal looks at you. He’s been looking at you a lot recently. Somehow, you’re only realizing that right now.
Hannibal
It doesn’t have to be.
And you have absolutely no rebuttal for that, so you don’t bother arguing. Instead, you just lean closer and allow your eyes to slip shut—resolving yourself to think about it when you wake. And if there’s a smile teasing your lips, well… he’s the only one to see it.