This mystery/suspense/thriller delivers a great story that isn't destroyed by it's first viewing. It's gritty and dark presentation gives it the unique look other films have tried to imitate and it's themes are even darker than the visuals.
Two detectives (Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt) start to investigate a serial killer who tries to teach through his killings about the seven deadly sins. Coincidentally these are the last seven days of Morgan Freeman's career as a detective before he retires and leaves this city he has grown to hate. Brad Pitt's character is also transfered to Freeman's area , right at the start of these killings - which leads to them becoming partners in solving this.
Now as far as movies with bleak messages and dark story telling - this one takes the cake. It's not something that takes away from the movie , but one of it's best features. The movie is at the core a very evil film. It doesn't offer any sort of happy conclusions or inspiring messages - it's message , is the one the killer portrays : the world is horrible place. I'm sure many of you can agree with me the world isn't a horrible place , but this film captures you in it's atmosphere - where you could definitely agree the world viewed in this film is a horrible place.
David Fincher has his reputation for being the master of dirty/dark visuals and this movie rarely leaves the color palette of black , gray , and brown. The look here is composed of many dark areas , filled with lights that aren't very bright. The whole movie stays in the same look and great camera work ensures this films look as classic.
This is one of the best mystery movies out there and the only horror movie I enjoy.
