Se7en (1995)
What's in the box?
Presentation:
Only second to sci-fi event blockbusters, there were detective serial killer movies from Fincher. At least in my opinion. Fincher’s iconic thriller is every bit of a nail biter today as it was in 1995. His signature precision less prominent than his other slick thrillers, instead focusing on tone, mood, and imagery. This one instead focuses on a style with the help of Prince of Darkness DP Darius Khondji. There is a much darker tone in this film as a result of the grungier punk visuals from bleachy film stocks, perfectly complementing the abundant noir silhouetted shadows. Seriously, there is more shadow than light in this film. Similar to his Zodiac serial killer movie, it’s quite possible this has influenced every other detective thriller after it, setting the bar for decades.
Conclusion:
It was hard to say whether to put Fight Club, Zodiac or Se7en as Fincher's best film, but I ultimately decided Se7en is far more influential than Zodiac. This film was made at a time where such subversion was considered revolutionary, and it still packs a punch in 2026. That iconic ending will leave you wanting to watch every other film from the meticulous director. Probably the most iconic detective thriller, and certainly one of the darkest endings that was so bold, Brad Pitt signed a clause in the contract that the twist ending could not change. And thank god, because what an ending it was.
Recommendations
So slow, you’ll be begging this assassin to kill you…