Interesting and unsettling, possibly David's finest hour

Rating: 10/10 (23 July 2006)

I haven't read the novel, nor do I know how good this is compared to it, but the author has said that this made him ashamed of the book, which can only really be a positive thing in this case. It's quite difficult to comment on this without giving something essential away. Being a fan of David Fincher and having heard nothing but positive reviews for this film, I eventually bought it. Having just finished it, it's hard to determine what to think of it. I had kind of heard the twist already, and I picked up on many of the hints towards it, so that had less(but still some) effect on me... I urge anyone who is even considering watching this to forget everything they've heard about it, look at no promotional material and just get, borrow or rent a copy of it and see it for yourself, without trying to figure out how it's going to end. The plot is intelligent, and very stylishly told. The whole production has an edge to it, but doesn't come off as pretentious. The satire and critique in the movie is smart, but it should perhaps be noted that no arguments are presented for the opposing view. The acting is all excellent. The visuals are slick and often undeniably disturbing. The whole thing has a rather dark tone. The cinematography is grand. The soundtrack fits like a glove for every scene. The dialog is clever and in-your-face. I've heard it said that this inspires anarchy and violence... that may be. But just because art is misunderstood does not mean it should not be made. Creative expression is one of the few things that make man great. Magnificent work, Mr. Fincher... keep it up. 10/10