Two detectives, Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and Mills (Brad Pitt), join forces to hunt down a mysterious and methodical serial killer who is terrorising the city with a series of horrific murders, each one representing one of the seven deadly sins. As the investigation unfolds, the pair are drawn deeper into a dark and twisted game, where each new discovery is more disturbing than the last. A memorable crime flick that is one of the most well-known movies of our time. It’s worth noting that Seven is currently streaming on Netflix.

Director: David Fincher
Writers: Andrew Kevin Walker
Starring: Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt, Kevin Spacey, Gwyneth Paltrow

Directed by David Fincher and written by Andrew Kevin Walker, the movie was heavily influenced by the writer’s time living in New York City while struggling to break into screenwriting. Ironically, while the story draws on the dark and unique atmosphere of New York, most of the film was actually shot on location in Los Angeles, with the production working carefully to recreate the feel of a bleak, unnamed city reminiscent of New York.

One of the primary strengths of Seven would have to be the dark, slow-building atmosphere that the filmmakers manage to convey. Each scene carries a dull, gloomy presence with a lingering tension that creates the feeling that something awful is just around the corner. The story, however, doesn’t feel rushed, instead taking its time to deliver one of the most impactful endings of any Hollywood flick in recent times.

Another interesting facet of the film would have to be the relationship between the two lead characters, as well as their contrasting personalities. The story tells the classic tale of the older, experienced detective on the bring of retirement and the younger, hungry counterpart that’s ready to dive into any given situation to prove himself. The clear bond between the two main characters and overall character development delivered over the one-hundred and twenty-seven minute runtime, gives the viewer a reason to become emotionally invested in the characters themselves and story that unfolds.

In terms of the cast, Morgan Freeman stars as the “older, experience detective”, adopting the role of Somerset, while Brad Pitt appears as the “younger, hungry counterpart”, Mills. Also appearing is Kevin Spacey, albeit briefly, in his role as John Doe. Finally, Gwyneth Paltrow also provided support, portraying Tracy, the partner of detective Mills.

Overall, Seven should most certainly be regarded as an effective piece of dark and gritty detective-led cinema, with an impactful finale. Its slow-burn tension, unsettling subject matter and strong character development all come together to create a film that manages to stay with the viewer, long after the credits roll. As previously noted, Seven is currently streaming on Netflix.

“He’s not the devil. He’s just a man.”

Somerset – Seven