"Become... WRATH".

Rating: 9/10 (11 September 2011)

The formula has been used before, an experienced and world weary detective (Morgan Freeman) is assigned a veritable rookie (Brad Pitt) as a partner to solve a crime that's about to evolve into a serial murder case. That's pretty much where the similarities end however, as director David Fincher takes us on a compelling, if not sordid ride into the belly of a cinematic beast. Based on the theme of the seven deadly sins, "Se7en" is a film you're not likely to forget, even if it's for all the wrong reasons. Though the sin of gluttony opens the story with the gruesome imagery provided by a coroner's description of the crime, the horror only builds as detectives Somerset (Freeman) and Mills (Pitt) follow the taunting trail of a yet to be identified killer. As the story progresses, the method of the murderer involves some of the most disgusting ways to dispatch a victim, and it's the discomfort the viewer has in imagining these crimes that play such a visceral part of the film's experience.
For all of the picture's implied gore and violence, the most riveting sequence of the film takes place after John Doe gives himself up, leaving the viewer to wonder how this is all going to play out. I must say, Kevin Spacey can be a harrowing presence in a film, and the way he portrays the serial killer is a study in implied menace. His demonic influence overpowers the ride out to the field where he's about to unload both barrels on the pair of detectives. His envy of the lawmen's skill compels the final deadly sin of wrath to bring the picture to a gut wrenching conclusion.
This film is not for the faint of heart, and definitely not for someone who likes their crime thrillers wrapped up neatly with a bow by the time it's over. Somerset certainly knew that "This isn't going to have a happy ending", but little could he have expected the twisted result of John Doe's final act of desperate, solemn fury.