The original adaptation of the Swedish novel by Stieg Larsson (not to be confused with the American adaptation from 2011 directed by David Fincher starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara), The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is chalk-full of mystery, intrigue, and bad-assery.
After journalist, Mikael, is sentenced to prison because of a set-up by a large corporation, he is recruited by Henrik Vanger to investigate the disappearance of his niece from over 40 years ago before his sentence begins. Meanwhile Lisbeth Salander, an experienced and highly skilled researcher/hacker with a photographic memory, is hired to investigate Mikael, and in the process stumbles upon the mystery he is investigating and they join forces. Together they unravel a darker series of events than they could have imagined.
Although the movie's runtime is approximately 2 hrs 30 min, I did not find myself checking the time to see when it would be over. Once I got into it, I was in it and committed. There are some very difficult scenes to watch, specifically referring to the rape scenes. However, I thought it was brilliant to see the weakness in even the toughest of characters. What got me though, was how Lisbeth goes home with the perpetrator and abuser on tape, sacrificing herself for a greater purpose, lights a cigarette and watches the video... that look on her face is absolutely priceless.
It becomes apparent that the underlying question the film presents is: How and are our actions justified depending on what has happened to us in the past? Not only that but what defines right and wrong in difficult situations where one party may seem deserving or guilty? It's all relative. Everyone has a different way of defining right and wrong. Is it morally just to let someone die if you are capable of saving them, even if they've committed heinous crimes? Are they a victim or is it just karma giving them what they deserve?
Very interesting and captivating film. I've had this one on my list for sometime now but could never make it a top priority, so I'm glad this challenge gave me the opportunity to watch it.
RB
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