Between rape, violence, and murder, there are seeds of biblical references thrown throughout the movie.

Rating: 7/10 (8 March 2012)

Between rape, violence, and murder, there are seeds of biblical references thrown throughout the movie. The bible is used as a 'how-to-guide' on how to kill women by the mysterious murderer. "The daughter of a priest, if she profanes herself by playing the harlot, she profanes her father. She shall be burned with fire". Hence, a reenactment of this bible passage from Leviticus 21:9 is inflicted upon a women's body. Every woman that is murdered is given a biblical reference linked to her killing. The role of justice and judgment is brought to the audience's attention throughout the film as well. Lisbeth is judged and misjudged by everyone who meets her. Her unique haircut, edgy make-up, and striking tattoos cause many people to jump back. She is mistreated by the social welfare system and in term brings justice to herself by taking matters into her own hands. The man who is in charge of monitoring Lisbeth, forced oral sex and rape upon her. She in turn secretly films the entire rendezvous, and uses it as leverage against him. She also tattoos his stomach with nasty suggestive words and tells him he is not allowed to see any other women. Like a God-like figure, Lisbeth tells him that she will be watching at all times and know when he disobeys her. She lets him know that punishment will fall upon him if he does. Through a 'vicarious lens', we as the audience believe what Lisbeth says to be true and fear her wrath as well. The narrative elements including the character, plot, point of view, and atmosphere all worked their way into the film and meshed fluidly. Even when graphic images are placed onto the screen, it is presented in a way that makes the audience still watch and not turn away.