Even though the Americanized version hits theaters Dec. 21, the Swedish film adaption of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is worth a watch.
Dragon Tattoo is a two and a half hour long adaption of Stieg Larsson’s best-selling novel where Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist wrongly found guilty of plagiarism, is hired to investigate the 40-year-old disappearance of a 16-year-old girl. The investigation takes place on a remote Swedish island where Blomkvist enlists the help of hacker Lisbeth Salander.
The movie begins by throwing the reader into the time directly after Blomkvist’s trial. Even someone who has read the Dragon Tattoo trilogy may find the beginning confusing as it frequently jerks perspectives and builds tension before introducing Salander. After the jerky beginning, the movie slows until Salander and Blomkvist finally join forces and the clues for the case begin to increase. Then the movie truly begins to whisk along and not an extra moment is spared deviating from the plot.
Even though Dragon Tattoo is considered a thriller, the movie revolves more around the characters. Noomi Rapace embodies every single part of Salander and plays her with an intensity not often seen. Michael Nyqvist, who channels the resourcefulness and determination seen in the book series, plays Blomkvist.
The backdrop to the movie changes the suit the atmosphere, whether it is taking the viewer to the frozen coast or to the scene of a crime.
Dragon Tattoo has more than its fair share of violence and adult situations. Viewers should be cautioned when the American remake says that it will be toned down. Some may want to read the novel before watching the movie just to have a grasp of the plot. Subtitles are also strongly recommended.
Despite strong elements and a slow start, Dragon Tattoo is a thriller not to be missed.
Film Information:
Director: Niels Arden Oplev
Starring: Michael Nyqvist, Noomi Rapace, Lena Endre, Peter Haber, Sven-Bertil Taube
Language: Swedish with English subtitles
Running Time: 152 minutes
Rating: R