After all the hype around the novel, I was intrigued by the Swedish film adaptation of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. I thought I might read the novel, then wait for the Hollywood movie (whenever that’s coming) but the book’s opening chapter was so dense (I am told that it’s a page-turner, but those first few pages turn like an old, rusty gear) that I knew I needed to see this movie to help me get into the story (and the phenomenon). The tale of a disgraced investigative journalist hired to solve a 40-year-old murder/disappearance with the help of the tough-yet-troubled young woman who hacked into his computer is a unique pairing no doubt. I’m sure the novel paints an even more interesting portrait of these two characters: Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander (a.k.a. she who wears the titular skin art). Being a Swedish film, it was more stark, raw and harsh than your average movie. Plus there are always twisted family secrets lying under the surface. Rather than being simply another depressing art film about the depths of the human condition, it was actually quite an exciting and twisty thriller. I am very much looking forward not only to David Fincher’s version, but also to seeing the Swedish-language sequel (The Girl Who Played With Fire), currently playing in theatres. (4 out of 5)

9 down, 41 to go!