By Myrto Kaiafa and Zoe Dimitropoulou

Se7en is considered by many as a “modern cinematic masterpiece”, with “supreme acting performances” starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, directed by David Fincher in 1995.

This film follows the story of a young detective named David Miles who is given seven days to work with detective Somerset, who is just a week away from retirement and whom he is going to replace. Their contrast personalities can be seen from the first scenes of the movie, where gentle, distant and logical Somerset meets the impulsive, full of energy and arrogant Miles. They both have to work closely to uncover a series of disturbing, ritual murders that lead to a thrilling manhunt in order to catch the  intelligent serial killer.

This incredibly powerful film can only leave you speechless and engrossed in thoughts, something that can of course be explained if we take a deeper look into the movie, so let’s divide it into four main sections:

SOUND DESIGN

The film’s sound design and score, composed by Howard Shore, play a crucial role in building tension and atmosphere in order to emphasize the dark side of human nature and lighten the plot development. The haunting soundtrack complements the visuals and adds to the overall sense of unease. The famous opening credits sequence, accompanied by the industrial and ambient score, immediately sets the tone for the film. Moreover, the intense music tones that are used , make the spectators feel  the escalation of the heroes’  actions and relate to them.

DIRECTION

David Fincher’s meticulous direction and the cinematography by Darius Khondji contribute significantly to the film’s success. The use of a handheld camera and a desaturated color palette complements the dark subject matter. Fincher’s attention to detail, as seen in the disturbing crime scenes and the methodical investigation, enhances the film’s realism and intensity and enlightens the main theme of the film; the seven sins.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT AND MOTIVATIONS

The characters in «Se7en» undergo significant development throughout the narrative. Detectives Mills and Somerset are portrayed as contrasting figures, with Mills representing youthful idealism and the energy of his age and Somerset embodying experienced cynicism and stubbornness. The dynamics between the characters are crucial to the film’s exploration of morality and the consequences of one’s actions. The differences between the characters of the two detectives are what make them approach the serial killer and realize the connection of the cases. As for John Doe, is not a typical serial killer . His motivations go beyond the usual desire for power or thrill. Instead, Doe sees himself as a moral crusader, seeking to expose the sins he perceives as rampant in society. This adds a layer of intellectual engagement to the film, as viewers are prompted to consider the nature of morality and justice. The most shocking thing about this character is the composure and the methodicality of his actions that seem to be organized very carefully a long time ago before they actually occurred. The common aspect in both the detectives and the serial killer is the smartness and the alternative way of thinking  , which is  why the plot twist is so unpredictable.

IMPACTFUL ENDING

The film’s climax and the shocking revelation at the end are pivotal to its impact. The twist not only subverts expectations but also reinforces the film’s themes about the nature of evil and the potential darkness within us all. The ending prompts viewers to reflect on the consequences of actions and the blurred lines between justice and revenge.

In conclusion, «Se7en» stands as a masterclass in filmmaking, blending a gripping narrative with thematic depth, powerful performances, and a meticulously crafted visual and auditory experience. Its enduring legacy in the thriller genre is a testament to its impact on both audiences and subsequent filmmakers. It is so shocking for us that we watched the movie, the fact that the innocent detective Mils’ girlfriend was one of the victims of the brutal serial killer and his tragic intentions. Thanks to its unpredictable plot , se7en is a masterpiece of the modern cinema productions.