Review of Se7en (1995) by Danny R — 18 Mar 2016

David Fincher's astonishing, atmospheric thriller is an unforgettable modern masterpiece of its genre. It opens in a rain-drenched, nameless American city where veteran police Detective Lt. William Somerset, played brilliantly by Morgan Freeman, in a performance of great dignity, is seven days away from his early retirement.

Enter David Mills, an young, idealistic, ambitious, and hot-headed Detective, played terrifically by Brad Pitt, in an vibrant performance, who has just arrived in town with his beautiful, loving wife, Tracy, played by a radiant Gwyneth Paltrow, in an heartfelt turn.

Somerset is forced to train his new replacement Detective Mills. Their first investigation together will forever altered their lives, as they will go after a cunning and meticulous serial murderer who will draw them deeper and deeper into his twisted world.

He is methodical, exacting and grotesquely creative. He is known as John Doe, and he is an viciously evil killer. Fashioning murders based on the seven deadly sins; Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Lust, Pride, Wrath and Envy.

The detectives must combine their collective experiences to track down this madman who is bent on seeking attrition for society's sins. This is one of the most disturbing, and darkest films ever released by a mainstream studio, and yet its horror is mostly unseen, and it works, it keeps us on the edge of our seats throughout the entire length of the film, thanks to the masterful direction by David Fincher.

The film also benefits greatly from the extraordinary cinematography by Darius Khondji, and the hunting score by Howard Shore. An uncompromising, ingeniously crafted horror show. Highly Recommended.