Detailed Summary
Introduction to Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” opens with journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) facing a professional crisis after losing a libel case against a powerful businessman, Hans-Erik Wennerström. Meanwhile, we are introduced to Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara), a brilliant but troubled hacker who conducts a background check on Blomkvist for her employer.
The Vanger Family Mystery
Henrik Vanger (Christopher Plummer), the aging patriarch of the wealthy Vanger family, hires Blomkvist to investigate the decades-old disappearance of his niece, Harriet. Henrik believes a family member murdered Harriet and offers Blomkvist evidence against Wennerström in exchange for his services.
Blomkvist and Salander’s Partnership
Blomkvist moves to the Vanger estate on Hedeby Island and begins unraveling the mystery. He soon realizes he needs help and enlists Salander, impressed by her hacking skills. Despite her antisocial behavior, Salander proves invaluable to the investigation.
Uncovering the Dark Secrets
As Blomkvist and Salander delve deeper into the Vanger family’s history, they discover a series of gruesome murders linked to biblical passages. The investigation reveals the dark and abusive pasts of several family members.
The Confrontation with Martin Vanger
The mystery leads Blomkvist and Salander to Martin Vanger (Stellan Skarsgård), Harriet’s brother, who has been continuing the family’s legacy of violence. Martin captures Blomkvist, but Salander intervenes, rescuing him in a dramatic showdown.
The Resolution of Harriet’s Disappearance
Salander tracks down Harriet, who has been living in Australia under an assumed identity. Harriet returns to confront her past and reclaim her life.
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Movie Ending
After solving the mystery, Salander uses her hacking skills to secure evidence against Wennerström, allowing Blomkvist to restore his reputation and take down the corrupt businessman. Despite their success, the film ends on a bittersweet note, highlighting the complexities of Salander and Blomkvist’s relationship.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, there are no post-credits scenes in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.”
Type of Movie
This film is a psychological crime thriller with elements of mystery and drama.
Cast
- Daniel Craig as Mikael Blomkvist
- Rooney Mara as Lisbeth Salander
- Christopher Plummer as Henrik Vanger
- Stellan Skarsgård as Martin Vanger
- Robin Wright as Erika Berger
- Yorick van Wageningen as Nils Bjurman
- Joely Richardson as Anita Vanger
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, known for their atmospheric and haunting soundscapes. The soundtrack complements the film’s dark and tense atmosphere.
Filming Locations
- Stockholm, Sweden: Captures the urban scenes and sets the tone for the investigation.
- Hedeby Island: A fictional location depicted using various rural locations in Sweden, adding to the film’s moody and isolated atmosphere.
These locations are integral to the film’s bleak and suspenseful aesthetic, reflecting the cold and isolated nature of the mystery.
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Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Won Best Film Editing; nominated for Best Actress (Rooney Mara), Best Cinematography, Best Sound Editing, and Best Sound Mixing.
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama (Rooney Mara).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Rooney Mara underwent a significant transformation, including piercings and a drastic haircut, to portray Lisbeth Salander authentically.
- Director David Fincher shot numerous takes of key scenes to achieve the desired intensity and realism.
- The cold and harsh weather conditions in Sweden added to the film’s authentic feel, though it posed challenges for the cast and crew.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: The film is based on Stieg Larsson’s 2005 novel of the same name, part of the “Millennium” series.
- Nordic Noir Influence: Incorporates elements typical of Scandinavian crime fiction, such as complex characters and dark, atmospheric settings.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
While there are no alternate endings, the film did have several scenes trimmed for pacing and focus, particularly around the investigation details.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Condensed Narrative: The film streamlines some of the novel’s subplots and character details to fit the runtime.
- Character Depth: The book offers deeper insights into Lisbeth Salander’s background and inner thoughts, which are only partially explored in the film.
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Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Opening Sequence: A visually striking and intense montage set to the cover of “Immigrant Song” by Trent Reznor and Karen O.
- Lisbeth’s Revenge: Salander’s confrontation with her abusive guardian, Nils Bjurman, showcasing her resilience and resourcefulness.
- Blomkvist’s Captivity: The tense and suspenseful scene where Martin Vanger reveals his true nature.
Iconic Quotes
- “I want you to help me catch a killer of women.” – Henrik Vanger
- “I’m crazy. You know that. You don’t want me.” – Lisbeth Salander
- “The fear of offending is stronger than the fear of pain.” – Mikael Blomkvist
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Symbolic Tattoos: Salander’s dragon tattoo symbolizes her strength and fierceness, reflecting her personality and resilience.
- Biblical References: The murders tied to biblical passages hint at the deeper motivations of the Vanger family’s dark history.
Trivia
- Rooney Mara’s audition for Lisbeth Salander was so intense that she had to take a break before finishing it.
- David Fincher insisted on casting Swedish actors in Swedish roles to maintain authenticity.
- The film’s initial title was “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Men Who Hate Women,” reflecting the original Swedish title.
Why Watch?
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” offers a gripping and atmospheric thriller experience with standout performances, particularly by Rooney Mara. It combines mystery, drama, and psychological depth, making it a compelling watch for fans of crime thrillers.