thepunktheory
Written on Nov 26, 2015
Let me begin with the novel. Stieg Larsson is an exceptional writer. The Girl who played with Fire is one of the books you can't put down. The story is thrilling and capturing, you can't wait to find out what happens next. Moreover, Lisbeth Salander is one of a kind. She's smart, brilliant actually, but doesn't bow down for anyone. She has her own rules. Her life is tough but Lisbeth is a fighter. Although she is the most antisocial person ever, you still start to care for her. Larsson composes a story with so many different layers, he will surprise you with every chapter.
Now to the movie. While I was a bit disappointed with Noomi Rapaces portrayal of Lisbeth in the first film, she does a far better job this time. Unfortunately we don't get to see much of Lisbeth's change in the film, but movie #2 is closer to the novel as the first one. I appreciate that only a few minor parts were changed.
The atmosphere of the novel was captured very well, and it felt like the actors could identify with their roles even more than in the first part. Another point I really liked is that movie #1 already contained hints to the #2 so it didn't feel like two isolated, separate movies.
The book is exceptional and the Swedish adaptation is also thrilling! I can't wait to finish novel #3 and watch the movie.
Little side note: The Hollywood adaptation of book #1 was great, I hope they also do movies on #2 and #3!