(Movie) wherein Anticipation Builds Before Key Character's Reveal

a buildup of Anticipation ... when the character finally appears, it has a HUGE impact
             movies in which there's a bunch of people talking about
a key person ... so much (in advance) that
when the character finally appears, it has a HUGE impact.
             The Third Man
             Apocalypse Now
             Silence of the Lambs
_________________The Third Man
Mysterious protagonist: The film begins with Holly Martins arriving in Vienna to visit his old friend, Harry Lime. However, Lime is mysteriously absent, and Martins soon discovers that he may not be the man he thought he was. This creates an air of mystery and intrigue.
Shadowy atmosphere: The film's noir aesthetic, with its dark, shadowy visuals and haunting score, contributes to a sense of unease and suspense.
________________ Apocalypse Now
Journey into the unknown: The film follows Captain Willard on a dangerous mission up the Mekong River to find and kill Colonel Kurtz. The journey itself is filled with uncertainty and danger, building anticipation for what awaits Willard.
Surreal atmosphere: The film's surreal and dreamlike imagery, combined with its exploration of the psychological effects of war, creates a sense of disorientation and suspense.
________________ The Silence of the Lambs
             The film begins with a chilling introduction to Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant but terrifying serial killer. His intelligence and cunning immediately establish him as a formidable and dangerous antagonist.
Cat-and-mouse game: The film's plot revolves around Clarice Starling's pursuit of Buffalo Bill, another serial killer. The cat-and-mouse game between Starling and Lecter, with Lecter offering his twisted insights, creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere.