Se7en

***SPOILERS***

Okay, we've all seen this movie at least once, but I watched it again this week because Chloe hadn't seen it. Last time I watched this was when I showed it to Stu, and his big problem with it was the scene in the bar when the idea of the movie is kind of laid out. But seeing it again, I feel like that scene is perfect. In fact, I felt affirmation that that movie is perfect. The script is solid, well paced, and in no place lacking. The direction is impeccable. The camerawork is interesting, but not invasive. All of the performances are strong and believable. The sound design is the only place the movie falls short, and it's because of a couple instances where things that shouldn't have had sound effects did. So upon the 5th viewing, and being nitpicky, 98% A.

As far as the direction goes, it is strongest during Lust. Up til that point, you see a lot of blood, but the point of the movie is not to be gory. By showing the picture of the leather harness blade thing instead of the mutilated body, it is up to the audience to create their own horror.

To get back to the bar scene, it is important because it sets up the scene when they are driving with John Doe. If Detective Somerset hadn't been able to explain more thoroughly his idea that the world was suffering from apathy, the scene in the car would have had less impact. As it was, Somerset had to listen to John Doe say the same things he believed.

I could go on, and analyze the quality of this movie shot by shot, but would that really be interesting? Instead, just go out and rent this movie. Watch it at least once more, because this is a movie worth appreciating.

Recommendations:
Zodiac
From Hell