Review of Se7en (1995) by Jefequeso — 19 Nov 2010

I honestly don't understand people who are calling this "a classic" "brilliant" or "best film ever." Se7en is not a bad film, technically speaking. It certainly hits all the required marks as far as cinematography and scripting go.

However, it's ultimately an unlovable and dare I say unmemorable film. To be sure, there was some morbid creativity to the kills. But they lacked any real "bite," being presented in a dull, almost routine fashion.

The same could be said for the film as a whole. There is no tension, no drive to the entire thing. Rather, Fincher heaps piles and piles of dark oily angst on the viewer, seemingly in hopes that the result will equal a thrilling, gritty story.

Instead, 'Se7en' feels bogged down by its own narcissism; So buried in nightmares and horrifying imagery that nothing else can possibly leave a lasting impression on the viewer. And in the end, I do have to admit that it is quite effective at creating an atmosphere of horrible, rotting apathy.

It's certainly up there with The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Eraserhead in that respect. And I suppose I can understand seeing it just to see its unique visual style. And of course Morgan Freeman is always fun to watch.

Unfortunately, as good as the atmosphere is, Se7en fails as a thriller, and even as a quasi-horror film. It lacks tension, drive, and cannot even deliver the sort of boorish "gut-punch" that can (on a very basic level) save films like this.

Not a terrible film, but far from classic caliber.