John Wick (2014)

A peek into the world of hit men with a script that is essentially a revenge flick. A lot of blood and violence. Reality is mostly suspended throughout the film, but the fast pace will distract you from focusing on it too much.

Rating: C

The Girl Who Played With Fire (Flickan Som Lekte Med Elden) (2009)

Caught this 2nd film in the trilogy on a business trip in Minneapolis at the Uptown Theater. It wasn't playing ANYWHERE in my home state of Utah. Frustrating. I caught the first one on a business trip in Baltimore. Thank goodness for a job with travel.

This was a really solid sequel with even more action and violence, however I liked the first one a little more. I appreciated the time given to back-story, allowing us to get to know the main character even better. These Swedish films are outstanding. Fincher has his work cut our for him.

Rating: B+

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (Män Som Hatar Kvinnor) (2009)

I had the fortune of having my hotel in Baltimore within walking distance of the Charles Theater where this was playing. It's a rare opportunity for me to see an art house film in an actual theater rather than at home on my couch. The movie builds slowly, even awkwardly, but gathers momentum and clarity in time.

The lead actress is excellent in a very meaty role. I didn't read the book, and therefore was not prepared for the rough subject matter. I'm glad the filmmaker didn't shy away from it though, otherwise the resolutions would not have been as rewarding.

This is an adult film with adult themes. Sometimes it's nice to be treated like an adult when most Americans are being treated like toddlers via films such as Grown-ups.

Rating: A-

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (2011)

Another action packed sequel with impossible stunts, kickass spy gear, and a convoluted plot that threatens world peace.

Rating: C

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest (Luftslottet Som Sprängdes) (2009)

A worthy conclusion to the trilogy. Not nearly as engaging as the first two, but a solid effort. I'm really looking forward to the remakes and seeing how they compare to the Swedish versions.

Rating: B