Seven - Review

“The world is a fine place, and worth fighting for” – A review of Seven. 

Released in 1995, Seven (or Se7en as it was stylised) stands as one of the most chilling thrillers in cinematic history. Directed by David Fincher and the screenplay by Andrew Kevin Walker, the film attracted an incredible cast who included the likes of Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt, Kevin Spacey and Gwyneth Paltrow. Set in a perpetually rainy, unnamed city (I write, as I sit in a very soggy London), Seven explores the depths of depravity and the fragile hope that remains in a world which has been overcome with violence and apathy.

The film follows two detectives, veteran William Somerset (Freeman) and newcomer David Mills (Pitt) as they hunt for a murderer who has taken inspiration from the seven deadly sins – gluttony, greed, sloth, envy, wrath, pride and lust. Each crime becomes more disturbing than the last, leading the detectives on a chilling journey through the darkest corners of humanity.

It's no surprise that with a cast like this the performances are incredible. Freeman’s Detective Somerset is world weary and comes across at a man nearing the end of his rope, yet compassionate enough to be completely unable to turn away from the depravity and suffering occurring around him. Pitt’s Detective Mills is hot headed, full of raw energy and emotional volatility, which provides a sharp contrast to Freeman’s measured calm. The mysterious antagonist is played by Spacey, who is absent throughout most of the film, yet still manages to create a lasting impression as he brings a chilling conviction to the role.

Seven is visually brilliant. The relentless rain creates an atmosphere of dread and hopelessness, and the meticulous attention to detail in every frame is grim yet strangely beautiful. The unnamed city is a character in its own right, as it is an oppressive and merciless labyrinth full of unknown horrors.

I of course won’t spoil the ending, but it is truly shocking and unflinching, leaving the viewer feeling uneasy and being forced to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves. This echoes the themes that are explored throughout, such as morality, justice, good vs evil, corruption and the human condition. Is the world inherently evil, or is there a chance for good to triumph?

It’s been three decades since the films release, yet Seven still remains a benchmark for the psychological thriller genre. Full of tension, remarkable performances and philosophical messaging makes it just as disturbing and relevant today as it was upon its release. If you enjoy unsettling and challenging cinema, then this is a must watch.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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