A Review Of The Film ‘Seven’ Starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman

    After watching a multitude of films over the summer, I have come to the conclusion that this 90s crime thriller is the best film to have watched. This is for many reasons, like the unique character development that progresses throughout, the ever unwinding story line and the ambiance of the film.
    The first thing that caught my attention when watching the film was of the relationship development between the two protagonists, Detective Mills and Detective Somerset. At the beginning of the film the audience is lead to believe that this pairing is initially not going to work with Detective Mills being very unorganised and dazed by the busy atmosphere of New York, as seen when he bumps into a woman on the bustle of the streets. On the other hand, detective Somerset is calm and collected whilst talking to his partner and walking the streets. This can be interpreted as a reflection of the experience both detectives have by working in the police force. This can also create preconceptions for the audience to think that there are differing mind-sets of between the two detectives.
    The use of the music throughout the film is one to be envied, especially with the use of classical music. This is an excellent choice of genre due to the well performed nature of the theme to the murders. This is a unique score of music to use. Although, one can interpret this to reflect the eccentric storyline, which makes us as the audience feel more intrigued and captivated as we are fully immersed within the experience. When there is a moment of heightened suspense, the music makes sure that this stays heightened with the use of increased bass and slow tempo. This music creates provoking thoughts of vulnerability and the dangerous situation the detectives are in each time. There is good use of repetition of the music which reflects the constant danger there is attached to the job of working in the police force.
      There is a suitable use of visual techniques such as montages and close shots along with short sequences that add depth and meaning to the storyline. For example, close shots of the protagonists are only used when there is a significant event occurring such as reviewing clues and finding the next victims. This gives the audience a glimpse of the true emotion the protagonists are showing, like determination and fear which are common emotions expressed throughout.
  In conclusion, these aspects of the film such as the close shots and the constant character contrast and development gives ‘Seven’ a unique feel to the film. This unique feel can also be seen through the dark lightning which is mimicking the true atmosphere of New York. However, there are times where the lighting techniques could be used less to give the audience a chance to be able to look at the whole bigger picture, making us feel as if we are able to solve the crime to.