The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)

Rating: 10/10 (5 January 2012)

Incredible thriller that reminded me of the first time I watched Silence of the Lambs and Se7en. It's been planned meticulously, with an airtight pacing that knows when to speed up or slow down. The first hour has the protagonists separated, which allows them to each grow on their own merits. When they finally meet, the relationship doesn't feel rushed or forced and it's great to see them grow. The film also manages to have an intriguing mystery, without resorting to overblown ridiculousness. The cinematography was breathtaking, making small apartments stand out as worlds to be explored. Rapace has a fine career ahead of her and I can't wait to see the next two parts in this trilogy.