The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo And The Wrongfully Accused Journalist Are On A Roll To Find Answers

Rating: Null/10 (8 March 2011)

Based on Stieg Larsson's popular novel, 'Män Som Hatar Kvinnor' (aka 'Girl With The Dragon Tattoo') is a thriller that engages and keeps the viewer at the edge of the seat. The execution is solid the cinematography captures the beauty and mystery of the Scandinavian landscape and showcases each frame, the score contributes and sound effect is brilliant. The editing is mostly slick but there are a few times when the film moves slowly.
The film touches various issues from hacking to sexual abuse and discrimination against Jews post the Second World War. None of them are explored fully as this isn't an issue-based film but it adds to the mystery and the story has enough grit and the characters are well written enough to involve the viewer. There are many twists that support the story in uncovering the layers.
The overall performances are good. Michael Nyqvist does a fine job as Blomkvist, the wrongfully accused journalist who encounters a second chance to do right. Noomi Rapace is the star of 'Män Som Hatar Kvinnor' as she is outstanding as she displays tremendous depth in a restrained performance.
Having not read Larsson's popular novels, 'Män Som Hatar Kvinnor' succeeds as a stand alone thriller. It is longer than the standard 90 minutes but that doesn't matter if a film is well-crafted and the story is well told.