The Girl Who Played with Fire

Following on from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is the next adaptation in Steig Larsson’s Millennium Trilogy. Director Daniel Alfredson takes over from Niels Arden Oplev, creating a well written, fast paced thriller that ensures existing fans will not be left disappointed.

Not your typical heroine, computer mastermind Lisbeth Salander (Rapace) goes on the run after being accused of murdering a young couple and her own guardian. When the calm yet mystifying journalist Mikael (Blomkvist) makes it his mission to clear Salander’s name, the two become embroiled in a strange series of events surrounding a sex-traffic ring, leading them through many perilous yet exhilarating exploits.

Packed with crime, violence and murder, this sometimes graphic film could be in danger of losing its humanity were it not for the spellbinding performances all round, particularly its leading lady. Rapace reprises her breakout role and is as intense as ever as Salander, exhibiting a quiet ferocity that wavers only in her moments of vulnerability. Alfredson has created an engaging film that sacrifices minor details of the book in favour of frenetic pacing and some stunning twists and turns.

Despite packing less of a punch than its highly inventive predecessor, The Girl Who Played with Fire possesses a solid, sophisticated style, leaving the audience wanting more. The multifarious, entwining storylines offer some heart racing thrills, ensuring that the audience is entertained throughout. This film will leave you on the edge of your seat and eager for the third instalment.

Claire York