The Girl In The Spider’s Web
Starring: Claire Foy, Sylvia Hoeks, Sverrir Gudnason, Stephen Merchant, Vicky Krieps (Rated MA – 117 min).
Swedish book and film, the Millenium Trilogy, was reworked into English language through Oscar nominated, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, with Christopher Plummer, Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara (as the notorious Lisbeth Salander). And now, continuing on the trails of espionage around the snowy landscapes and mostly bleak city streets, Lisbeth returns to the screen – now played by amazing in anything in which she appears, Claire Foy.
Swapping suspense or grit with guns and explosive action sequences, I still really liked this follow on, albeit not a direct sequel. Foy shows fury trying to rid the world of scum in her own jarring way. If you have seen the trailer, you have seen the opening moments of the film conveying the dark exploits of Salander have not changed. She is the ultimate stealth criminal.
The threat of nuclear weapon software in the wrong hands is the basis of plot mechanics here with Government authorities and Russian gangsters on the hunt, but not together, for the potential end of the world device that Lisbeth may or may not have access to. Complicated as it may be, I liked the film. Action sequences are well done, especially across snow-covered Stockholm. As mentioned, Foy is an instant must-see and although different to to the more hardcore Mara and Noomi Rapace playing the roles before her, she gives solid spark when needed. Dread in her eyes and physical attributes won me over.
True fans of the novel source may be indifferent and the obvious direction from David Fincher lacking, there’s no denying new director Fede Alvarez (Don’t Breathe) brings slick entertainment value. Last seen in Blade Runner 2049, Sylvia Hoeks has a decent small role displaying both gorgeous looks and brimming talent, she’s impressive. While a rare dramatic turn from Stephen Merchant has its convincing moments, I liked him in Logan (2017) too. See it!
Shane A. Bassett
