David Fincher's American version of Stieg Larsson's phenomenal bestseller pairs disgraced Stockholm financial journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) with androgynous, enigmatic computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara). The duo are hired by aging, wealthy industrialist Henrik Vanger (Christopher Plummer) to solve the mysterious disappearance of his beloved grand-niece during a family gathering back in 1966. The common belief is that she was murdered by a family member. But who? Living on isolated Hedeby Island in the remote north, the Vangers are a bizarre assortment of dysfunctional characters. Taking over the family business from his late, anti-Semitic father, there's genial Martin (Stellan Skarsgård), whose sister Anita (Joely Richardson) left for London to become an investment banker. Also on hand are Cecilia (Geraldine James), the siblings' curious cousin, and Henrik's attorney Frode (Steven Berkoff). Meanwhile, 24-year-old, bisexual Lisbeth is still a ward of the state and forced to report to a bullying, exploitive bureaucrat, Bjurman (Yorick van Wageningen), when her long-time guardian suffers a stroke. Working from Steven Zaillian's compressed adaptation, Fincher sets a fast pace, keeping the adrenaline pumping with savage violence, including rape, graphic torture, and brutal retribution. Craig scowls convincingly, Oscar nominee Mara is brilliant as the defiant, multi-pierced, dragon-tattooed, grungy goth girl, and Robin Wright scores as Blomkvist's married editor/lover. Of course, for the multitudes who've read Larsson's novels and/or seen the highly successful Swedish film versions, this remake will not only feel familiar but also lacks any inherent whodunit suspense. Still, this well-done do-over is sure to be popular. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include audio commentary by director David Fincher. Bottom line: a small extras package for this solid adaptation of Stieg Larsson's bestselling thriller.] (S. Granger)
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Sony, 158 min., R, DVD: $30.99, Blu-ray: $40.99, Mar. 20 Volume 27, Issue 3
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
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