THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO 4.0***
This is an excellent whodunit thriller about the disappearance of a 16 year old girl 40 years ago in Sweden ( a REALLY cold case), and the genius of the movie is how the 2 investigators go about trying to solve such an old puzzle. It is based on the first book in Stieg Larsson's crime trilogy with the main characters journalist Mickael Blomkvist and outcast computer hacker Lisbeth Salander Fans of the book will NOT be disappointed…I can say so because I read the book. The 2 hours and 38 minute running time allows time for great depth and detail which makes the whodunit even more fascinating. Even at this length some subplot lines have been left out but fortunately they made the right choices. It does not hurt the overall feel of the movie and, in fact, helps to sharpen the focus on the mystery

. An aging corporate executive, Henrik Vanger (Christopher Plummer), employs Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) to solve the puzzle of his missing niece. .. a girl who mysteriously disappeared 40 years earlier. It has become an obsession to Henrik to shed some light on his missing niece's fate, and he is desperate to have closure before he dies. Acclaimed investigative journalist Mickael Blomkvist is hired for his researching skills. Eventually Blomkvist teams up with secluded computer hacker Lisbeth Salander( Rooney Mara). Their investigation unfolds a complex set of clues leading to a string of morbid sadistic murders spanning decades. Pieces of the puzzle slowly start falling into place, as inevitable confrontation with the hidden villain draws closer. Alongside this main plot line, both of our main characters have to deal with personal problems that help us understand their characters.

The two leads are both compelling but Mara as Lisbeth is absolutely spellbinding. She has the perfect combination of toughness and vulnerability with a hint of possible psychopathy. You simply cannot take your eyes off her when she’s on the screen. This about 100 lb whirlwind of a woman is depicted as being somewhat craftier, stronger and more energetic than her male counterpart. This does not however diminish Blomkvists character a bit as he is the perfect contrast to her…steady, congenial, wise and much the gentleman. Having a female heroine such as Lisbeth is a welcome twist to the classic detective genre. And overall, Mara gives a sensational, fearless, dedicated, and electrifying performance that guarantees an Oscar nod.

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is a harsh, gritty, and rough cinema trip that will capture your attention right off and carry you spellbound to the amazingly exciting ending . Also, if you're squeamish, you may not like it. It is rated “R” .There are two shocking rape scenes, a torture sequence and a hefty amount of nudity involved. But it is consistent with the book and the film is more the powerful as a result.

Clark