Fincher Files
Throughout the entire month of January, Cineplex has been presenting David Fincher’s "finest work" on the big screen; Se7en (1995), The Game (1997), Panic Room (2002), Zodiac (2007), The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), The Social Network (2010), The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011) and The Killer (2023).
With his meticulous attention to detail, Fincher has mastered the art of redefining the thriller genre, delivering films that draw viewers into worlds of gripping intrigue, calculated tension, and unforgettable characters — I had to watch and rewatch his films on the big screen.
I decided to create my own little "film festival" moment by watching three of the films during a cold January Saturday (a dream come true).
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The day began with The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), one of my all-time comfort films. Born under extraordinary circumstances, Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt) enters the world as an elderly man and ages in reverse. After his mother dies in childbirth, he is abandoned by his father (Jason Flemyng) and raised in a New Orleans nursing home. At twelve, he meets Daisy (Cate Blanchett), a young girl who drifts in and out of his life as she grows into a ballet dancer. Though Benjamin embarks on remarkable adventures, his deep bond with Daisy—and the hope they will find each other at the right moment—drives him forward.
I've watched this film countless times, but I couldn’t resist the chance to see it on the big screen. While not without its flaws, its beauty is undeniable. The profound themes, stunning cinematography, and emotional score combine to create a truly unforgettable experience, especially in a theatre.
From the moment I first saw Benjamin Button at school when I was 13, I was completely drawn in. While my classmates struggled to connect with the film, I was instantly hooked and watched it again at home the following week. The originality of the story and the deep emotions it stirred in me (plus my huge crush on Cate Blanchett—if you know, you know) left a lasting impact. It was the first time I felt such a strong connection to a film, making it deeply significant despite its imperfections.
At its core, the film explores the complexities of the human experience. Through Benjamin's reverse aging, the film offers a meditation on time, the fleeting nature of life, and how our experiences shape us. It also captures the beauty and challenges of love and loss, raising the question of whether Benjamin’s life is dictated by destiny or shaped by his choices. Ultimately, it challenges conventional ideas of aging, death, and what it truly means to live life to the fullest.
For a 13-year-old, the film was quite heavy, and since I tend to feel things deeply, its themes deeply affected me. As I got older, it resonated even more, breaking my heart a little more each time I watched it. Even if you don’t fall in love with the film itself, you’ll surely fall in love with Cate Blanchett’s beauty—so either way, it’s a win.
The Game
And then, I finally watched The Game (1997) for the first time. Needless to say, I was excited to finally experience this film.
For his birthday, San Francisco banker Nicholas Van Orton (Michael Douglas)—a brilliant but emotionally distant financier—receives an unconventional gift from his younger brother, Conrad (Sean Penn): a certificate to participate in a mysterious game. Almost instantly, Nicholas is thrust into a perilous experience governed by unpredictable rules, blurring the line between illusion and reality.
I found the film’s concept fascinating because, much like Nicholas, you're constantly questioning what’s real and what’s not. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the film takes an unexpected turn, proving you wrong. While it’s not my favourite Fincher film, I can understand why it resonates with so many, particularly because of the themes it explores.
Ultimately, the game forces Nicholas to confront his emotional walls, challenging his perceptions of reality and control, leading to personal growth and self-discovery. Despite his success, he leads a solitary life, and the game compels him to face his emotional detachment and vulnerability—likely stemming from witnessing his father’s death. The film highlights the emotional isolation that often lingers in people’s lives, showing how it can shape their relationships and decisions, even when they’re surrounded by others.
I enjoyed watching The Game on the big screen, but I couldn’t help feeling a bit disappointed. The concept and the underlying message were undeniably intriguing, pulling me in with their psychological depth. However, as the film ended, I found myself expecting more—something about the experience felt off, though I can’t quite pinpoint what it is. Perhaps it’s because, as the story builds to its climax, the events start to feel a bit over the top. The twists and turns that initially kept me on edge gradually became more unbelievable, constantly pushing the boundaries of plausibility. What had been a carefully layered tension throughout the film suddenly veered into territory that felt almost too far-fetched.
While it’s not David Fincher’s best film (and he agrees), I still think it’s worth watching at least once for its unique concept and the way it keeps you guessing—at least until the final stretch.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
And last, but not least, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011). Your feel bad Christmas movie.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a psychological thriller adapted from Stieg Larsson’s novel of the same name. It follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig), whose career is put at risk after he attempts to expose corrupt businessman Hans-Erik Wennerström (Ulf Friberg) for financial fraud. Amid this turmoil, wealthy industrialist Henrik Vanger (Christopher Plummer) hires him to investigate the decades-old disappearance of his niece, Harriet (Moa Garpendal). Blomkvist teams up with Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara), a brilliant but socially withdrawn hacker with a troubled past. As they dig deeper into the mystery, they uncover a dark and twisted history within the powerful Vanger family.
The film masterfully blends investigative journalism, cyber-hacking, and psychological tension, creating an intense atmosphere—all underscored by Fincher’s signature style.
The first thing I have to say is that you must watch this film—it has everything you could want: suspense, unexpected twists, a phenomenal cast delivering outstanding performances (special shoutout to Rooney Mara), and a soundtrack that’s a total banger (Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin, Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross—you will always be famous)! From the very first scene, the film pulls you in with its moody atmosphere and razor-sharp direction. The pacing is impeccable, keeping you on the edge of your seat without ever feeling rushed. Every twist lands perfectly, leaving you guessing until the very end.
Rooney Mara is mesmerizing, delivering a performance that’s both raw and magnetic. She embodies Lisbeth with such intensity that you can’t look away—and honestly, you’ll even forget it’s her. The rest of the cast is equally impressive, each bringing depth and nuance to their roles, making every interaction feel electric.
And let’s talk about the cinematography—stunning! Every frame is meticulously composed, adding to the film’s eerie, immersive quality. The use of lighting and colour enhances the tension, making even the quiet moments feel charged with anticipation.
I think I could talk about this film for hours—I am completely obsessed with it. But honestly, watching it as blind as possible is the best way to experience it.
If you’re not familiar with these films directed by David Fincher, I highly recommend watching them—along with the rest of his filmography. You could uncover what happened to Harriet Vanger or find out what’s in the box!
Originally posted on W Spotlight
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