meh - salacious and vapid

Rating: 4/10 (25 February 2013)

Not having read the book or seen the Swedish version, I watched this movie on it's own terms. It was a decent mystery story but many gratuitous scenes - primarily for shock value?
The finale was extremely contrived - to the point of breaking. Why would the investigator be so bumbling to get discovered - then go back into the house? How did Lisabeth get into the dungeon to save the day? The double doors and key card access were explicitly pointed out.
After that, all the exotica about the disguise and bank transfers and then school girl disappointment dragged on and on. Apparently there will be a sequel.
The idea that the missing girl moved to London and grew up and became a successful banking professional - under an assumed name - BUT still part of the family?? Implausible, confusing and ultimately a transparently simple plot solution.
one other continuity thing I noticed, when the taxi drops Craig off at the guest house, the snow behind it does not show tire tracks meaning the taxi backed up the long, curving drive? maybe that's how they roll in Sweden.