Better than average, but lacks depth

Rating: 7/10 (19 July 2010)

I was half-way into reading the book when I decided to catch the movie because of the hype. Wife never read the book. After viewing the film, while I enjoyed it better than the average American thriller, I was not as overwhelmed by it as the hype surrounding the film. To give it credit, the two protagonists, Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Bloomqvist, are definitely an interesting crime solving duo, and one of the most unique in recent times. Both the actors do a good job with their characters. However, while the book takes its time in delving into the the intricacies of the mystery, I felt that the movie kind of cut out some of the interesting relationships that kept you interested in the story. Also, a key element in the book (Venestrom affair) were briefly alluded to in the movie, but are probably key in making this story more poignant. Wife and I both agree that while not overwhelming, it did jog our interest to see the second movie. Personally, would have waited for the rental. I am interested to see if the Hollywood version can make itself more powerful, but will wait for reviews before even considering going to see it.