Review of Se7en (1995) by Miroslav G — 18 Feb 2015

After the abomination known as Alien 3 was hated upon by critics and audiences alike, it seemed as if newcomer director David Fincher's career was over before it had even begun, but thankfully that wasn't the case because three years later we got Se7en.

Se7en is undoubtedly a modern masterpiece when it comes to the thriller genre, relying on utter suspense and the atmosphere it creates to become just as nail-biting as it is disturbing; simply enough, the film is extremely dark, demented, gruesome, as well as just plain sick at times and is not for the weak-hearted.

Don't get me wrong however, the film isn't just another mindless gore fest; Se7en not only justifies how dark and gruesome it is but also uses those elements to amplify the film to unprecedented heights, showing exactly how essential they are to the film's plot.

I think it's safe to say that in the wrong, less competent hands of someone else, Se7en easily could've been a misfire. Not only that, but because Se7en wasn't restrained by the meddling of a studio like Alien 3 was, Fincher was given near-complete creative control over the film, subsequently allowing him to make the film his own and for him to showcase his distinct filmmaking style, something that would later become a defining trademark of his (especially in Fight Club).

The performances are pretty good, featuring a young, up-and-coming Brad Pitt as the newly transferred cocky, arrogant, and hot-headed detective along with Morgan Freeman as the wise, laid-back, veteran detective and his soon-to-be retired predecessor.

While that dynamic may not be very original, don't let it fool you because it is nonetheless enthralling, especially with the back-and-forth the two actors have in the film. Not to mention a finale that is just as memorable as it is haunting, Se7en will probably forever imprint itself into your memory (whether it's in a positive way or a negative one is completely up to you).

In conclusion, Se7en is a remarkable film and while some may consider Fight Club as Fincher's best work, Se7en is my personal favorite.