Lessons from the Screenplay Hey, your Moonrise Kingdom video seems to be blocked worldwide. Anything you can do about that? Anyway, my favourite Fincher movies are Fight Club and Gone Girl. Seven and Social Network are really good too, and Curious Case of Benjamin Button is IMO incredibly underrated.
You can see the original trilogy, It's call Mænd der hader kvinder. And is amazing, it's in sweden so try to maybe find eng sub. But worth a shot if you want closure.
I mean, that's the Danish title, yeah. The original Swedish title is Män som hatar kvinnor, or just the Millennium trilogy. It's a masterpiece and vastly superior over what this film is trying to do.
Totally disagree, Fincher's was soooo much better. The production value alone far exceeds the Swedish version and his casting was perfect. Much more like the characters in the brilliant books.
+Lessons from the Screenplay My wife and I tried to watch the Fincher version after having watched the original 2009 Swedish film a year earlier. Sadly, we turned it off a little over halfway into it because it just felt so...I guess, "flat" would be the best word? It felt like many of the scenes were forced somehow. If you ever get the chance, give the original a watch. It's really that awesome. :) The woman who plays Lisbeth is perfect. I can see why they wanted to remake it for American audiences. But, I remember the Fincher version being touted as being "shocking" or something along those lines. Compared to the original, it's a snoozefest. You want shock, check out the 2009 film sometime. It would be interesting to hear your thoughts. :)
@@MsTriangle Sorry, the Rooney version was a snoozefest. For a character that is raped, I find it hard to believe there wouldn't be anger on some level.
6 years!?!? Wow. This movie impacted me a lot. I immediately read the books and watched the swedish version. Very compelling story. I wish they would make the other two with Rooney Mara.
right? *SPOILER* after i've finished the book, i never looked at Bjurman the same way again... and in this movie, when Lisbeth (Mara's character) told Blomkvist that she was the ward of the state because she tried to burn her father alive, it didn't make much sense to me at first. but now.. woah... this could be a very compelling trilogy if Fincher were to take helm. but sadly... ps. still not a fan that they've changed how Blomkvist discovered Hariet towards the end of the movie
Fun fact! The company I used to work with had the Swarovski family as clients. The detail about the whole rich family all living in the same city, spying on each other and not moving elsewhere because they didn't trust one another is basically that family totally. Rich people can be very strange.
I have a theory about this: When it comes to money, fame, status, etc. I think it grows to dominate the lives of the people that are surrounded by it and everything else fades, most often it is trust in others. Money/fame/status starts to take over the identity of these people who do not have likes and hobbies but excessive indulgences to keep up their level of status and such. For example, they would buy expensive paintings not knowing the first thing about art but just so they can brag about the value/rarity of it. Human beings are a strange bunch... I wish I was an alien tasked with psychiatric evaluations of us preferably with a 1000 year lifespan 'cause this shit's gonna take some time! About the movie though, I did not know this was going to be a trilogy... kinda bummed out now that we're not gonna get it. I don't really understand the popularity of the Marvel films because even if I turn my brain off, so to speak, and just consume these things as a product, I don't get much enjoyment out of them. Some good ones, sure, I'll enjoy them on the first watch but on repeated viewings they just become noise (a couple of exceptions I've found are Homecoming and Ragnarok because the comedy in them is just too fun). Even the critically acclaimed Infinity war was hard to watch a second time for me...
I had no idea this movie should have been a trilogy, it's so well made that I was shocked, surprised and impressed in the same time at the beginning. It felt very odd and interesting, but I had no idea why. More movies should be made like this, I would pay to see a sequel to the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Great great great video, man, now I understood the idea of the movie, which is too complex to the average person, but entertaining.
Claudiu Lucian The girl with the dragon tattoo is the first part of a trilogy of books called Millenium. If you get the chance to read them please do, the books are beyond excellent but they're not the easiest to read tbh.
You can check the Swedish version which is a released trilogy staring Noomi Rapace and Michael Nyqvist. Personally, I think it's even better than the American one.
The Swedish film trilogy is pretty good even if it doesn't have the budget of the US version. Definitely check it out if you want more of the story (Noomi Rapace's take on Lisbeth is quite different from Rooney Mara's but it's equally compelling).
Spoiler: in the beginning of the story, the killer is revealed when mikeal has dinner with henry and some other lady. When the wind blows, mikeal and the lady look in the same direction but henry looks in a different direction. A scream can be heard as it is disguised by the wind blowing. Henry then gets up and goes in the opposite direction of where the others heard the wind.
2:04 - Loved that editing choice! They come in bars, play and pause, then crossfade.. beautiful, beeeautiful. Gonna use that on a project someday x) tks for the inspiration!
There aren't a lot of things I would like more than to see this trilogy completed.. It's painful to know it'll never happen with this cast and crew. A damn shame, really.
I've only seen the Swedish trilogy and I've never realize how the american version of Millenium is so loyal to the book and how good Fincher adapted Larsson's work
Having watched both films, I was amazed at how loyal the adaptation was, while still appealing to local sensibilities. It really demonstrates how poorly handled most foreign adaptations are. It ended up not having the sequels merited, so perhaps America doesn't want accurate foreign adaptations.
Tyler Reed this movie made 10x more than the original in America. the issue is Sony is a bad studio that doesn't know how to manage money. without Marvel rebooting Spider-Man and The Rock saving them with Jumanji they'd be on the verge of sale or bankruptcy this year. heck, the new president of Sony might sell the movie and tv studios off anyway. this movie got lost in the system just like several good movies per year at WB. Edge of Tomorrow, The Nice Guys etc.
girls don't go crazy like this..... they are actually pretty pragmatic about things............. it's a lie, I think they just pretend to be euphoric in presence of people and then they just leave like nothing
One of my (many) favorite moments in this film is when Mikael asks Lisbeth to help him: "I want you to help me catch a killer of women" and that look on her face, there is nothing she would like more. So well acted. Im stiff in awe of the acting talent Rooney Mara has displayed in the last few years.
Hey Michael, I've been watching for awhile without commenting and just wanted to let you know I really liked this video. I think a large part of the reason why I liked it so much is because of how engaged you were with exploring the implications of Fincher's quote. Your content is great and I always check out each new video you make, but I would also love to see more videos where you engage deeply with aspects of film that interest you in this way. Nice work!
This film is one of my favorite films because the Millennium saga is my favorite ever. I've been a fan of your lessons for almost a year, thanks for all the hard work! I'm pretty sure you're helping future scriptwriters and directors to be better.
I get a buzz whenever I see an upload from LFTS in my feed because I know every one of your videos will be well made, well researched, informative, and fascinating at every moment. Your videos have been a great help, so, thank you (if you see this ahaha)
Young screenwriter here, This video is such an amazing breakdown and inspiration to young writers like myself. It's sad Fincher didn't continue the trilogy. Thank you so much for this video. Love your channel and the content you put out. It really sets you apart from other film video essay channels.
I am an aspiring filmmaker from Cuba, and i was looking for a way to learn more about the art of screenwriting, which is one of my biggest lacks. And then I found you. Dude, I can only say: Thank you so much for doing what you do, and please keep doing it.
One of the most compelling, unnerving and well cast Hollywood adaptations of a book. Ever. The first thing the director, producer and screenwriter all got right was that they each sat down read the fucking novel and loved it. Fincher and Zaillian are the super hero duo we so desperately need right now but don't deserve. Great video essay as always, Mr. Screenplay. You reminded me how much I love this film.
For a million subscribers you should analyze a script written by you, what you did wrong, what you did right, what you would change knowing what you know now etc. Great video as usual man, keep it up.
Rooney Mara as Lisbeth was such a beautiful gem. I can't believe we missed out on what could have been an amazing trilogy... Can't wait for another Spiderman remake this year am I right?
I adore this film. The soundtrack, the story telling, the characters, the cinematography.... I can't get enough of it. The final scene, without fail, brings me to tears every time. The music combined with her obvious emotional pain is so heartbreaking. Love this movie.
and it's kinda sad that this is what we consider a bold, rule-breaking film. It's fine, but it's really not astounding or as 'out there' as you make it out to be
Oh just wait a bit longer. The marvel formula does not work forever. For instance I was so annoyed when Thor: Ragnarök was constantly undermining emotional moments by silly jokes. Guardians of The Galaxy 2 told us already that was okay, apparently. I enjoyed Winter Soldier and Civil War the most so far, since those stories gave at least a glimpse of consequences to actions and let the heroes suffer a bit for their decisions (the very first Iron Man movie did the same, a hero struggling over his actions). Now it's all comedy, which is fine but ultimately Marvel needs to understand that audiences grow up/wisen up and heroes need to as well. Tony Stark got the best character arc so far, Thor could have had one as well but his recent solo was mostly slapstick comedy while his kindred were slain by Hel, who was no villain to be taken seriously. I respected Surtr more than her for some reason. Star wars has the same problem, by the way. The Last Jedi especially.... even if Mike disapproves. That movie took risks at the wrong places and told us by mocking its origins (the comedy used was stuff you see in low level mockeries like The Epic Movie and Scary Movie)
What I most like about your channel is that, sometimes, when I like a movie, I can't tell specifically *why* is that. I just... 'think is a good movie' or 'feels different'. You make me aware of *what* feels different when I watch these movies, and enlightens me about some reasons why I liked it.
This is perhaps the best thing you've ever done. I've been waiting for a video where you look at both sides of the argument for such a long time. Dragon Tattoo is my #3 Fincher and I love it even more now. Also I love how you turned the essay into a story/investigation about the background behind Fincher's comment. I think the thing that happened here is that the video essay genre just took one little step forward!
Wow, thank you! I'm glad you appreciated the trajectory of this/these videos. It was definitely hard to make it an investigation while also a lesson. This comment may have made my day! :D
Whenever your videos pop up I get super pumped! As a DP I would constantly get handed scripts that had massive action paragraphs covering pages. I'd love to see a video discussing action and better ways to discuss detail in scripts.
I love this movie so much, my favorite Fincher film as well. I was absolutely heartbroken that this didn't turn into a trilogy. His use of cool/warm colors set in a wintry backdrop immediately hooked me. I tried watching the originals but love this so much I couldn't get through them. Great video!
Like i said on your last video, a video on a hayao miyazaki film would be great. Or my favorite animated film for quite sometime now, Wolf Children by studio chizu.
The breakdown of story beats within all five acts is friggin brilliant. Just opened up my mind to a whole new way of looking at structure. (insert mind-blown gif here)
Just watched the film again, perhaps for the fifth time, and yet never could explain why I felt so drawn into the story, characters and plot(s). A shifting structure and broken conventions are what makes this movie so engaging. Thanks!
Wow, I really loved how you broke this film down! The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was such a fantastic adaptation, and this video just enriched my experience of the story. Thank you!
I was so excited to see this pop up in my sub box. So glad to see this film getting the appreciation it deserves. I re watched it recently after reading through the original trilogy again and even though I've seen it a few times before, I was still as drawn in as I was the first time. The Swedish versions are great to have but to me, they focus more on hitting the main story points while Fincher's version delves so much more into the characters and the relationships. I held my breath for years hoping he'd be able to continue the series, ah well:( Great video, as usual!:)
Wow, am I seeing this right. 2 videos from you in less than a week. Thank you for your hard work dude. Btw, off topic but Im currently a film student. I want to specialize in writing.
I've been in a creative rut for the longest time, and gradually allowed my insecurities and perfectionism define the extent of my capabilities as an artist - finding comfort in the heartbreak of never becoming a successful filmmaker. However, despite your sadistic tendency to leave me in tears upon viewing your videos, I am once again reminded why film will always be worth it; especially in this crucial decision making portion of my life. One last thing: I had commented on your video covering The Shining back in 2016, and told you how much help it was for an upcoming English exam I had to sit in year 12, to which you replied and wished me luck. I ended up getting the highest grade in my level, and I liked the idea of it being a mutual success in our own right. So very sincerely, thank you for what you do and thank you for being passionate.
You sound as if you are too young to be giving up yet on your desire to be a filmmaker. Having a Plan B is always good, but you don't know yet what will come your way. Stay open:)
Fcking brilliant. You are amazing at untying cinematic structure. I'm a nascent screenwriter, trying hard constantly to understand this stuff, and I can't see it nearly as clearly as you can. These videos are more illuminating to me than whole books on screenwriting that I've read (in vain) hoping for this kind of insight. Please keep doing this, and please keep focusing on thrillers.
Let me ask you a question: how well do you guys understand Norwegian and Danish? Are you able to pick up Kierkegaard (and a Danish dictionary) and read relatively smoothly?
Fabrício Santana It's easier to read than to hear/speak. Some dialects of Norwegian sounds very similar to Swedish. We could talk to each other without any problem. But some dialects sound too strange to be comprehensible. Danish is harder but still somewhat understandable.
Interesting... So I think that with a little bit of input training you could come to understand them at an almost native level within a short period of time. So learning one of them might be almost killing three birds with one stone... Thanks for the answer :)
They're making one. Unfortunately Fincher, Craig and Rooney Mara aren't returning but they are making an English version of 'The Girl in the Spider's Web', which I think they have said is meant to be a sequel to Fincher's adaptation. It sucks that Fincher isn't coming back to direct the sequel, but they got Fede Alvarez, who directed 'Evil Dead' and 'Don't Breathe', to helm it.
You could try the Swedish versions if you don't mind subtitles or dubbing. They weren't directed by Fincher obviously but they stay very close to the books, and personally I prefer Noomi Rapace portrayal of Lisbeth compared to Rooney Mara.
The sweedish adaptation is wild ;) But I got really attached to the actors and how they portrayed the characters (I often do) and there's no substituting that.
This was a great video in general, but I specifically want to single out what a great job it does of discussing the Lisbeth/Bjurman storyline without being graphic or upsetting. Really appreciated that.
Michael, you blow my mind away with each video. I actually avoid watching more than one or two every week because I really take the time to think about what you say, watch the movie again, and think some more. Thank you so much for your amazing work, you're absolutely terrific!
I had just gotten re-obsessed with this movie recently, seeing this in my subscription box freaked me out and I had to double check whether this was new or not haha thank you so much for this vid !!
Always learning with every video you upload and your channel is one of my favourites. Could you give "Legion" a try? Of how to write a protagonist as an unreliable narrator? And how to use it correctly.
For hitting 1M subscribers (which is insane, really proud of you), you could break your own convention by not talking about the screenplay of a movie, supported by footages and helpful graphics and quotes, but instead just you talking about your favorite movie. Or maybe gives us a walk through your own dvd collection, to see what gets you inspired. Anyways, love your channel and hope to see many great clips like this! Keep up the good work!
I've been subscribed to your channel for a while, but never commented on anything. Until now. You sir, are an extraordinary analyst on narrative structures, and for that I really, really admire you. It's so cool, so great to learn so many things through your eyes and perspective, and that's always awesome; specially for me, being a filmmaker and a writer in constant (and hopefully good) knowledge upgrading. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with the world, in such a brilliant way. (:
I just want to say - thank you Michael for your dedication to the videos and the channel. For me it is like having a good friend somewhere around and listening, discussing with him on films and writing - without meeting him in life, unfortunately. Btw it is radically better than film schools which turn this process of studying into routine and formal programs. Thank you, LFTS.
I swear, everytime people say the Swedish version is better than Fincher's I always defend it by saying all the points that you mention here; I am so glad I am not alone in this, someone sees Fincher's masterpiece and how he was settling everything for a trilogy. The Millenium trilogy is one of my favorite books, and Fincher made The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in the same way Larsson wrote it: The first one serves as a stablishment of the characters, the setting, the subjects that he'll be talking about. It's a great, amazing story but book 2 and 3 are ASTONISHING. They're a clear masterpieces, they go down a path you would have never expected and keeps you, everytime, under the edge. Fincher was doing the same thing and it will always break my heart that he will never be able to continue with them. Thank you for these two videos :-) You're awesome.
Whoa! Great analysis, Michael. I've been signed on board since the very beginning, but I think this may well be your best one yet. Excellent job, mate. Whatever you do to celebrate 1 million followers, I know will be something fun and informative. Cheers!
When I watched this movie, I didn't know why I loved it but being here now, the breakdown of the movie by lessons from the screenplay has provided me with some insight. It made me appreciate the movie even more while also being amazed at how masterfully David Fincher directed it. I'm definitely reading that "into the woods" book. Keep it up LFTS.
This is my favorite Fincher film and my favorite film ever, largely thanks to its form and craft. Thank you SO much for this video - I've been studying this film since I saw it in 2011 and you elucidated things for me I never even considered. Your video bummed me out at the trilogy failing to come to fruition - especially considering they had the foresight to include imagery from the second two films in the credit sequence, as well as to thoughtfully cast the roster of supporting characters - but then you made me happy at realizing Fincher did achieve his dream of hard-edged serialized narrative storytelling with MINDHUNTER. Thanks so much for this video man.
WHEN you hit 1 million, I would say go back to one of your first videos, maybe even the first one and reanalyze your own screenplay for the video. See if you still agree with your original perspective, why or why not. To me celebrating an occasion always feels more momentous when you can see how far you’ve come.
Love this movie, definitely one of my favorite Fincher films as well. Still mad they didn't continue it. Good video, you broke it down very nicely. It makes me appreciate the film even more.
Hats off to you, Sir, for producing these insanely inspirational, perfectly designed, edited, narrated and animated videos on a weekly basis. I cannot imagine the amount of work that is. Future filmmakers and screenwriters will be indebted to you!
Hey Michael,. I think a fun idea for a video once you reach 1 million Subs would be a video assessing the various elements of story and techniques you've covered and seeing how you've implemented them in your own work as a Writer/Director. Talking about what you've taken from these lessons and how you've changed your process as a result.
I know there are so many reviews/analyses on the film, The Thing by John Carpenter (1982), I absolutely loved this movie so I guess I am biased by saying that it is one of the best movies I've ever watched that kept me on my toes throughout the entire film. But I would love it for you to analyze it and hear your thoughts on how the movie was good/bad.
Thank you so much! This is one of my favorite movies and the fact that we will never see the whole trilogy is breaking my heart. You did great job with this video. Again, thank you!
The film was one of my favorites, because of this unconventional structure. Just when you're getting ready for something to end, it just keeps going, and throwing more hooks at you, pulling you deeper into the story
You truly have a gift doing this. Thank you for these amazing videos. I always get excited when you post a new one because I know that I'll learn something new.
First of all, SO HAPPY your channel is doing so well! I've used your American Beauty, Ex Machina and Dark Knight videos so much in my own stuff. Secondly, if you hit a million, DO MULHOLLAND DRIVE. The only Lynch film that I think makes complete and total sense when you deconstruct it. My favorite film of all time! Thanks :)
Loved this film. Bought it after it was released on Blu-Ray, but was disappointed when there was no sequel in the works. Especially from David Fincher.
There was already three swedish films adapted from the books so it probably seemed pointless to Fincher to complete the franchise. Plus those actors have busy schedules.
Before I even evaluated this evaluation, I saw it was LFTS and decided that this was the most comprehensible interpretation, of an interpretation. Believe me, that's a solid compliment.Thanks, Michael.
Im glad somebody else loves this movie! Every time I try to bring it up its virtues, I always get something along the lines of "the original is waaaayyyy better. You should watch the original." Well I have, and this one, in my humble opinion, is way better.
Yeah man, people love to say "go watch the original" and I always answer the same thing. I did watch, and the Fincher one is actually waaaaayyy better.
I love this. When I'm writing I like to write what is natural and hate to squish it into a 3 act structure. I look forward to the future of cinema and us experimenting more.
you should listen to any Stephen Gaghan podcast then! he hates conventional structure, and tells the secret to a successful -according to Tolstoy but who cares right? wink wink - is not that formulaic crap, but what's the four important elements in order, to write a great novel (or a film), the first one is NOT story. But: 1- Transitions. (They energize the story) 2- Context 3- Character 4- Story (LAST) this strips away formula! keeps you in a creative state where the best things come from nowhere
I cannot begin to describe how much I love this channel! Your narrative is brilliant and reflects the depth of your love and understanding for movies as an art! Looking forward to more and more great lessons. P.S. - You have an exquisite voice Michael!
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is one of my favorite Fincher films, up there with Se7en. Do you have a favorite Fincher film? If so, which one?
The Social Network. 2nd place would be Se7en.
Gotta be Fight Club
Lessons from the Screenplay need to see this film. only Fincher film I have not seen. how does it rate compared to the rest of his filmography?
Lessons from the Screenplay Hey, your Moonrise Kingdom video seems to be blocked worldwide. Anything you can do about that?
Anyway, my favourite Fincher movies are Fight Club and Gone Girl. Seven and Social Network are really good too, and Curious Case of Benjamin Button is IMO incredibly underrated.
I'd say: #1 Fight Club / #2 Se7en / #3 The Social Network / #4 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
I’m still not over the fact that this trilogy didn’t happen.
Me too, clearly.
You can see the original trilogy, It's call Mænd der hader kvinder. And is amazing, it's in sweden so try to maybe find eng sub. But worth a shot if you want closure.
I mean, that's the Danish title, yeah. The original Swedish title is Män som hatar kvinnor, or just the Millennium trilogy. It's a masterpiece and vastly superior over what this film is trying to do.
nah, glad it didn't happen. The original Millenium Trilogy in Swedish cannot be excelled, even not from master Fincher himself :)
Totally disagree, Fincher's was soooo much better. The production value alone far exceeds the Swedish version and his casting was perfect. Much more like the characters in the brilliant books.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Fincher not getting to complete this trilogy is a crime against film and a crime against humanity.
That last part is a little extreme but yes I'll definitely agree with that first part. Incredibly disappointing and sad.
He reaaalllly should've got to make his trilogy. A very-well crafted film.
Agreed!
Too bad it's all business and movies are not free to make. Well unless great directors or writers start using crowd funding for their movies...
You could watch the swedish versions, they are really good too! The series is called "The Millenium Trilogy" :)
+Lessons from the Screenplay My wife and I tried to watch the Fincher version after having watched the original 2009 Swedish film a year earlier. Sadly, we turned it off a little over halfway into it because it just felt so...I guess, "flat" would be the best word? It felt like many of the scenes were forced somehow. If you ever get the chance, give the original a watch. It's really that awesome. :) The woman who plays Lisbeth is perfect. I can see why they wanted to remake it for American audiences. But, I remember the Fincher version being touted as being "shocking" or something along those lines. Compared to the original, it's a snoozefest. You want shock, check out the 2009 film sometime. It would be interesting to hear your thoughts. :)
PS: I'm not saying the original is good just for shock value. It gets high marks on all of its aspects. :)
Rooney Mara's performance in this is so incredibly good.
Did you see the swedish original version? because clearly Noomi Rapace was way better!
@@jp8239 Salander was never an angry butch like Rapace, Rooney really nailed every single aspect of that performance.
@@jp8239 Accuracy has nothing to do with performance. Rapace blew Rooney out of the water.
@@MsTriangle Sorry, the Rooney version was a snoozefest. For a character that is raped, I find it hard to believe there wouldn't be anger on some level.
Al Addin Never. I like Noomi a looot, but this role was made for Rooney
6 years!?!? Wow. This movie impacted me a lot. I immediately read the books and watched the swedish version. Very compelling story. I wish they would make the other two with Rooney Mara.
right?
*SPOILER*
after i've finished the book, i never looked at Bjurman the same way again...
and in this movie, when Lisbeth (Mara's character) told Blomkvist that she was the ward of the state because she tried to burn her father alive, it didn't make much sense to me at first. but now.. woah...
this could be a very compelling trilogy if Fincher were to take helm. but sadly...
ps. still not a fan that they've changed how Blomkvist discovered Hariet towards the end of the movie
YES, Rooney and Craig had chemistry... would have been a favorite trilogy.
It's too late now tho
Which version do you like best , the american or the swedish?
Fun fact! The company I used to work with had the Swarovski family as clients. The detail about the whole rich family all living in the same city, spying on each other and not moving elsewhere because they didn't trust one another is basically that family totally. Rich people can be very strange.
Fascinating!
xingcat half the family members in the film's rich ass family were Nazis so they're bound to be much more twisted lol
Mo money...
I have a theory about this: When it comes to money, fame, status, etc. I think it grows to dominate the lives of the people that are surrounded by it and everything else fades, most often it is trust in others. Money/fame/status starts to take over the identity of these people who do not have likes and hobbies but excessive indulgences to keep up their level of status and such. For example, they would buy expensive paintings not knowing the first thing about art but just so they can brag about the value/rarity of it. Human beings are a strange bunch... I wish I was an alien tasked with psychiatric evaluations of us preferably with a 1000 year lifespan 'cause this shit's gonna take some time!
About the movie though, I did not know this was going to be a trilogy... kinda bummed out now that we're not gonna get it. I don't really understand the popularity of the Marvel films because even if I turn my brain off, so to speak, and just consume these things as a product, I don't get much enjoyment out of them. Some good ones, sure, I'll enjoy them on the first watch but on repeated viewings they just become noise (a couple of exceptions I've found are Homecoming and Ragnarok because the comedy in them is just too fun). Even the critically acclaimed Infinity war was hard to watch a second time for me...
nah rich people are excentric^^
I think this is the most important video you've made so far.
Zachary S I totally agree.
I had no idea this movie should have been a trilogy, it's so well made that I was shocked, surprised and impressed in the same time at the beginning. It felt very odd and interesting, but I had no idea why. More movies should be made like this, I would pay to see a sequel to the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Great great great video, man, now I understood the idea of the movie, which is too complex to the average person, but entertaining.
Claudiu Lucian The girl with the dragon tattoo is the first part of a trilogy of books called Millenium. If you get the chance to read them please do, the books are beyond excellent but they're not the easiest to read tbh.
There's a sequel coming out this year. Not made by Fincher tho, and recasting every single person in the film. Quite disappointing.
You can check the Swedish version which is a released trilogy staring Noomi Rapace and Michael Nyqvist. Personally, I think it's even better than the American one.
Indra Vargas I will try reading the books, you made me curious.
The Swedish film trilogy is pretty good even if it doesn't have the budget of the US version. Definitely check it out if you want more of the story (Noomi Rapace's take on Lisbeth is quite different from Rooney Mara's but it's equally compelling).
Spoiler: in the beginning of the story, the killer is revealed when mikeal has dinner with henry and some other lady. When the wind blows, mikeal and the lady look in the same direction but henry looks in a different direction. A scream can be heard as it is disguised by the wind blowing. Henry then gets up and goes in the opposite direction of where the others heard the wind.
Holy crap
Woah 😦😦
That happens when Mikael has dinner with Martin Vanger and Martin's girlfriend. But that dinner is well into the film.
You might just be one of the most consistently great creators on youtube I know. Love this.
Thank you!
Here here!
My favorite Fincher movie and totally underrated. It still breaks my heart that we won't get a sequel to this version of Dragon Tattoo.
🙌
There is going to be a part 2 but it won't have the original cast members in it.
RedVIII I agree with you my friend .
kobretti88 I Agree With You.
TR_ 236 The entire trilogy was made in Sweden with Noomi Rapace playing Lisbeth. They’re fantastic films.
I love this film, and still want to see the continuation with David Fincher and not a remake.
What are you talking about? The Fincher version is a remake.
This is seriously one of the best, and important, channels on all of UA-cam. Makes being a patron easy.
This is one of the best films I've seen. It's too bad the trilogy was not pursued and completed.
2:04 - Loved that editing choice! They come in bars, play and pause, then crossfade.. beautiful, beeeautiful. Gonna use that on a project someday x) tks for the inspiration!
If you ever need a film score composer please let me know
There aren't a lot of things I would like more than to see this trilogy completed.. It's painful to know it'll never happen with this cast and crew. A damn shame, really.
I know :(
The original swedish trilogy is on Netflix if you don't mind subtitles
I've heard very good things, I plan to check it out at some point!
I've only seen the Swedish trilogy and I've never realize how the american version of Millenium is so loyal to the book and how good Fincher adapted Larsson's work
Having watched both films, I was amazed at how loyal the adaptation was, while still appealing to local sensibilities. It really demonstrates how poorly handled most foreign adaptations are.
It ended up not having the sequels merited, so perhaps America doesn't want accurate foreign adaptations.
Tyler Reed this movie made 10x more than the original in America. the issue is Sony is a bad studio that doesn't know how to manage money. without Marvel rebooting Spider-Man and The Rock saving them with Jumanji they'd be on the verge of sale or bankruptcy this year. heck, the new president of Sony might sell the movie and tv studios off anyway. this movie got lost in the system just like several good movies per year at WB. Edge of Tomorrow, The Nice Guys etc.
and the Swedish trilogy ist the better one.
yes, it's actually pretty funny that the Fincher version is closer to the book and manages to be a better movie overall
girls don't go crazy like this..... they are actually pretty pragmatic about things............. it's a lie,
I think they just pretend to be euphoric in presence of people and then they just leave like nothing
One of my (many) favorite moments in this film is when Mikael asks Lisbeth to help him:
"I want you to help me catch a killer of women"
and that look on her face, there is nothing she would like more. So well acted.
Im stiff in awe of the acting talent Rooney Mara has displayed in the last few years.
Hey Michael, I've been watching for awhile without commenting and just wanted to let you know I really liked this video. I think a large part of the reason why I liked it so much is because of how engaged you were with exploring the implications of Fincher's quote. Your content is great and I always check out each new video you make, but I would also love to see more videos where you engage deeply with aspects of film that interest you in this way. Nice work!
Awesome, that's great to hear. Thanks Meredith!
Thank god, another video already ?
LFTS has to be one of if not my favorite yt channel
This film is one of my favorite films because the Millennium saga is my favorite ever.
I've been a fan of your lessons for almost a year, thanks for all the hard work! I'm pretty sure you're helping future scriptwriters and directors to be better.
I get a buzz whenever I see an upload from LFTS in my feed because I know every one of your videos will be well made, well researched, informative, and fascinating at every moment. Your videos have been a great help, so, thank you (if you see this ahaha)
That’s awesome to hear! Thank you!
Sean Keogh 💯
Young screenwriter here,
This video is such an amazing breakdown and inspiration to young writers like myself. It's sad Fincher didn't continue the trilogy. Thank you so much for this video. Love your channel and the content you put out. It really sets you apart from other film video essay channels.
I am an aspiring filmmaker from Cuba, and i was looking for a way to learn more about the art of screenwriting, which is one of my biggest lacks. And then I found you. Dude, I can only say: Thank you so much for doing what you do, and please keep doing it.
One of the most compelling, unnerving and well cast Hollywood adaptations of a book. Ever. The first thing the director, producer and screenwriter all got right was that they each sat down read the fucking novel and loved it. Fincher and Zaillian are the super hero duo we so desperately need right now but don't deserve. Great video essay as always, Mr. Screenplay. You reminded me how much I love this film.
Thank you, and I agree!
For a million subscribers you should analyze a script written by you, what you did wrong, what you did right, what you would change knowing what you know now etc. Great video as usual man, keep it up.
Good suggestion!
Love this idea!
Rooney Mara as Lisbeth was such a beautiful gem. I can't believe we missed out on what could have been an amazing trilogy... Can't wait for another Spiderman remake this year am I right?
😂
The edit (at 2:10) from the main protagonists to their love interests was such a simple & powerful way of making your point
I adore this film. The soundtrack, the story telling, the characters, the cinematography.... I can't get enough of it. The final scene, without fail, brings me to tears every time. The music combined with her obvious emotional pain is so heartbreaking. Love this movie.
I'm still a big fan of Marvel and similar movies, but it is kinda sad to see when other quality movies fall to the wayside for being less marketable.
Me too! I enjoy a lot of the Marvel films. It's just unfortunate, like you said, that there is only so much room.
Especially when you consider how much more this probably made over the original
I can't help but feel we're gonna look back on them in the same vein as the b-movies of the 60s
and it's kinda sad that this is what we consider a bold, rule-breaking film. It's fine, but it's really not astounding or as 'out there' as you make it out to be
Oh just wait a bit longer. The marvel formula does not work forever. For instance I was so annoyed when Thor: Ragnarök was constantly undermining emotional moments by silly jokes. Guardians of The Galaxy 2 told us already that was okay, apparently.
I enjoyed Winter Soldier and Civil War the most so far, since those stories gave at least a glimpse of consequences to actions and let the heroes suffer a bit for their decisions (the very first Iron Man movie did the same, a hero struggling over his actions).
Now it's all comedy, which is fine but ultimately Marvel needs to understand that audiences grow up/wisen up and heroes need to as well. Tony Stark got the best character arc so far, Thor could have had one as well but his recent solo was mostly slapstick comedy while his kindred were slain by Hel, who was no villain to be taken seriously. I respected Surtr more than her for some reason.
Star wars has the same problem, by the way. The Last Jedi especially.... even if Mike disapproves. That movie took risks at the wrong places and told us by mocking its origins (the comedy used was stuff you see in low level mockeries like The Epic Movie and Scary Movie)
What a detailed and comprehensive breakdown of one of my favorite (and underrated) Fincher films. Thank you for doing GWTDT justice!
What I most like about your channel is that, sometimes, when I like a movie, I can't tell specifically *why* is that. I just... 'think is a good movie' or 'feels different'. You make me aware of *what* feels different when I watch these movies, and enlightens me about some reasons why I liked it.
My avatar says everything you need to know about my feelings for this film. Such an amazing work by Fincher, and highly underrated.
These two essays about the limitations and virtues of conventional structure are by far your most insightful pieces yet. Thanks a lot for your help.
This is perhaps the best thing you've ever done. I've been waiting for a video where you look at both sides of the argument for such a long time. Dragon Tattoo is my #3 Fincher and I love it even more now. Also I love how you turned the essay into a story/investigation about the background behind Fincher's comment. I think the thing that happened here is that the video essay genre just took one little step forward!
Wow, thank you! I'm glad you appreciated the trajectory of this/these videos. It was definitely hard to make it an investigation while also a lesson. This comment may have made my day! :D
It’s a crime that we never got the rest of the fincher millennium trilogy
Whenever your videos pop up I get super pumped! As a DP I would constantly get handed scripts that had massive action paragraphs covering pages. I'd love to see a video discussing action and better ways to discuss detail in scripts.
I love how you are breaking down each element of the screenplay and showing how important each is to all movies. Thank you so much.
I love this movie so much, my favorite Fincher film as well. I was absolutely heartbroken that this didn't turn into a trilogy. His use of cool/warm colors set in a wintry backdrop immediately hooked me. I tried watching the originals but love this so much I couldn't get through them. Great video!
Like i said on your last video, a video on a hayao miyazaki film would be great. Or my favorite animated film for quite sometime now, Wolf Children by studio chizu.
The breakdown of story beats within all five acts is friggin brilliant. Just opened up my mind to a whole new way of looking at structure. (insert mind-blown gif here)
Michael, you’re spoiling us! Two videos in the same week! 🙌
Enjoy it while it lasts! May not happen again for awhile :P
Just watched the film again, perhaps for the fifth time, and yet never could explain why I felt so drawn into the story, characters and plot(s). A shifting structure and broken conventions are what makes this movie so engaging. Thanks!
Wow, I really loved how you broke this film down! The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was such a fantastic adaptation, and this video just enriched my experience of the story. Thank you!
I was so excited to see this pop up in my sub box. So glad to see this film getting the appreciation it deserves. I re watched it recently after reading through the original trilogy again and even though I've seen it a few times before, I was still as drawn in as I was the first time.
The Swedish versions are great to have but to me, they focus more on hitting the main story points while Fincher's version delves so much more into the characters and the relationships. I held my breath for years hoping he'd be able to continue the series, ah well:( Great video, as usual!:)
2 days in a row of lfts videos best 2 days of my life
Wow, am I seeing this right. 2 videos from you in less than a week. Thank you for your hard work dude. Btw, off topic but Im currently a film student. I want to specialize in writing.
It's been a very busy couple of months. And that's awesome! Best of luck to you, write lots and lots!
Lessons from the Screenplay means a lot coming from you. Yes I will work hard :-)
I've been in a creative rut for the longest time, and gradually allowed my insecurities and perfectionism define the extent of my capabilities as an artist - finding comfort in the heartbreak of never becoming a successful filmmaker.
However, despite your sadistic tendency to leave me in tears upon viewing your videos, I am once again reminded why film will always be worth it; especially in this crucial decision making portion of my life.
One last thing: I had commented on your video covering The Shining back in 2016, and told you how much help it was for an upcoming English exam I had to sit in year 12, to which you replied and wished me luck. I ended up getting the highest grade in my level, and I liked the idea of it being a mutual success in our own right. So very sincerely, thank you for what you do and thank you for being passionate.
You sound as if you are too young to be giving up yet on your desire to be a filmmaker. Having a Plan B is always good, but you don't know yet what will come your way. Stay open:)
Fcking brilliant. You are amazing at untying cinematic structure. I'm a nascent screenwriter, trying hard constantly to understand this stuff, and I can't see it nearly as clearly as you can. These videos are more illuminating to me than whole books on screenwriting that I've read (in vain) hoping for this kind of insight. Please keep doing this, and please keep focusing on thrillers.
It's awesome to watch this movie for me because I'm Swedish. The movie shows so many details of our culture.
That's cool to hear!
Goth culture? XD
Let me ask you a question: how well do you guys understand Norwegian and Danish? Are you able to pick up Kierkegaard (and a Danish dictionary) and read relatively smoothly?
Fabrício Santana It's easier to read than to hear/speak. Some dialects of Norwegian sounds very similar to Swedish. We could talk to each other without any problem. But some dialects sound too strange to be comprehensible.
Danish is harder but still somewhat understandable.
Interesting... So I think that with a little bit of input training you could come to understand them at an almost native level within a short period of time. So learning one of them might be almost killing three birds with one stone...
Thanks for the answer :)
I want a sequel so bad :(
Me too!
They're making one. Unfortunately Fincher, Craig and Rooney Mara aren't returning but they are making an English version of 'The Girl in the Spider's Web', which I think they have said is meant to be a sequel to Fincher's adaptation. It sucks that Fincher isn't coming back to direct the sequel, but they got Fede Alvarez, who directed 'Evil Dead' and 'Don't Breathe', to helm it.
I have fingers crossed for that sequel, but I think the David Fincher/Steven Zaillian adaptation is insuperable.
You could try the Swedish versions if you don't mind subtitles or dubbing. They weren't directed by Fincher obviously but they stay very close to the books, and personally I prefer Noomi Rapace portrayal of Lisbeth compared to Rooney Mara.
The sweedish adaptation is wild ;) But I got really attached to the actors and how they portrayed the characters (I often do) and there's no substituting that.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is my favorite David Fincher's movie.
This was a great video in general, but I specifically want to single out what a great job it does of discussing the Lisbeth/Bjurman storyline without being graphic or upsetting. Really appreciated that.
Michael, you blow my mind away with each video. I actually avoid watching more than one or two every week because I really take the time to think about what you say, watch the movie again, and think some more. Thank you so much for your amazing work, you're absolutely terrific!
I had just gotten re-obsessed with this movie recently, seeing this in my subscription box freaked me out and I had to double check whether this was new or not haha thank you so much for this vid !!
Ha, awesome!
Always learning with every video you upload and your channel is one of my favourites.
Could you give "Legion" a try? Of how to write a protagonist as an unreliable narrator? And how to use it correctly.
Or the same type of video with Mr Robot in mind.
Both are really amazing shows
It would have been amazing to see the Fincher's trilogy complete... such a masterpiece (both the swedish and the american version in my opinion)
This is absolutely one of the best filmmaking videos on UA-cam to date. Bravo.
For hitting 1M subscribers (which is insane, really proud of you), you could break your own convention by not talking about the screenplay of a movie, supported by footages and helpful graphics and quotes, but instead just you talking about your favorite movie. Or maybe gives us a walk through your own dvd collection, to see what gets you inspired.
Anyways, love your channel and hope to see many great clips like this! Keep up the good work!
When you get a chance, please do a video on Phantom Thread. It's got a unique quality to it I can't quite put into words but I feel like you can.
I've been subscribed to your channel for a while, but never commented on anything. Until now.
You sir, are an extraordinary analyst on narrative structures, and for that I really, really admire you.
It's so cool, so great to learn so many things through your eyes and perspective, and that's always awesome; specially for me, being a filmmaker and a writer in constant (and hopefully good) knowledge upgrading.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge with the world, in such a brilliant way. (:
Awesome! Thanks Carlos :)
Amazing content, like good movies you are underrated...
Keep it up, I learn something in every one of your videos
One of my all time favourite films. I will never get over the fact that they didn’t complete the trilogy. Perfect analysis, as always.
I just want to say - thank you Michael for your dedication to the videos and the channel. For me it is like having a good friend somewhere around and listening, discussing with him on films and writing - without meeting him in life, unfortunately. Btw it is radically better than film schools which turn this process of studying into routine and formal programs.
Thank you, LFTS.
This movie was amazing and people usually look it over, thank you dude! this movie deserves better.
I swear, everytime people say the Swedish version is better than Fincher's I always defend it by saying all the points that you mention here; I am so glad I am not alone in this, someone sees Fincher's masterpiece and how he was settling everything for a trilogy.
The Millenium trilogy is one of my favorite books, and Fincher made The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in the same way Larsson wrote it: The first one serves as a stablishment of the characters, the setting, the subjects that he'll be talking about. It's a great, amazing story but book 2 and 3 are ASTONISHING. They're a clear masterpieces, they go down a path you would have never expected and keeps you, everytime, under the edge.
Fincher was doing the same thing and it will always break my heart that he will never be able to continue with them.
Thank you for these two videos :-) You're awesome.
Whoa! Great analysis, Michael. I've been signed on board since the very beginning, but I think this may well be your best one yet. Excellent job, mate. Whatever you do to celebrate 1 million followers, I know will be something fun and informative. Cheers!
Thanks Mark!
When I watched this movie, I didn't know why I loved it but being here now, the breakdown of the movie by lessons from the screenplay has provided me with some insight. It made me appreciate the movie even more while also being amazed at how masterfully David Fincher directed it. I'm definitely reading that "into the woods" book.
Keep it up LFTS.
This is my favorite Fincher film and my favorite film ever, largely thanks to its form and craft. Thank you SO much for this video - I've been studying this film since I saw it in 2011 and you elucidated things for me I never even considered. Your video bummed me out at the trilogy failing to come to fruition - especially considering they had the foresight to include imagery from the second two films in the credit sequence, as well as to thoughtfully cast the roster of supporting characters - but then you made me happy at realizing Fincher did achieve his dream of hard-edged serialized narrative storytelling with MINDHUNTER. Thanks so much for this video man.
*sees LFTS make a video about David Fincher clicks immediately*
The First Order Same, honestly
It physically hurts that this will never be a trilogy :(
WHEN you hit 1 million, I would say go back to one of your first videos, maybe even the first one and reanalyze your own screenplay for the video. See if you still agree with your original perspective, why or why not.
To me celebrating an occasion always feels more momentous when you can see how far you’ve come.
Ooooh, that's a cool idea.
Love this movie, definitely one of my favorite Fincher films as well. Still mad they didn't continue it. Good video, you broke it down very nicely. It makes me appreciate the film even more.
Hats off to you, Sir, for producing these insanely inspirational, perfectly designed, edited, narrated and animated videos on a weekly basis.
I cannot imagine the amount of work that is.
Future filmmakers and screenwriters will be indebted to you!
Hey Michael,. I think a fun idea for a video once you reach 1 million Subs would be a video assessing the various elements of story and techniques you've covered and seeing how you've implemented them in your own work as a Writer/Director. Talking about what you've taken from these lessons and how you've changed your process as a result.
i love this movie so much. shame it isn't going to be a trilogy.
Me too!
I know there are so many reviews/analyses on the film, The Thing by John Carpenter (1982), I absolutely loved this movie so I guess I am biased by saying that it is one of the best movies I've ever watched that kept me on my toes throughout the entire film. But I would love it for you to analyze it and hear your thoughts on how the movie was good/bad.
cmoot THAT is a great idea
Thank you so much! This is one of my favorite movies and the fact that we will never see the whole trilogy is breaking my heart. You did great job with this video. Again, thank you!
The film was one of my favorites, because of this unconventional structure. Just when you're getting ready for something to end, it just keeps going, and throwing more hooks at you, pulling you deeper into the story
Amazing work as always. Highlight of January.
I think you should do a screenplay review of how you make your screenplays to celebrate your 1 mil.
Your videos are always worth the wait. Thank you for your hard work.
You truly have a gift doing this. Thank you for these amazing videos. I always get excited when you post a new one because I know that I'll learn something new.
First of all, SO HAPPY your channel is doing so well! I've used your American Beauty, Ex Machina and Dark Knight videos so much in my own stuff. Secondly, if you hit a million, DO MULHOLLAND DRIVE. The only Lynch film that I think makes complete and total sense when you deconstruct it. My favorite film of all time! Thanks :)
$232.6 million on a $90 million budget should warrant a sequel - this was a solid movie!
Would be fun a video about multiple-character movies, like magnolia!
Keep it up. Your essays are great dude.
Thanks Matthew!
Anyone else still pissed Rooney and Daniel aren't returning. I waited YEARS!
More pissed about Fincher not returning but yeah.. Honestly not expecting much from this new iteration
Josh Hansen I feel like at least we would've had the cast. But I feel u!!
🙋🏻♀️
You and every frame a painting need to come together. The holy Grail of film analysis. Thanks and keep up the good work. Hope you reach 1 M soon
I’m in awe of the way you dissect movies. Beautifully done.
I think this is your greatest work on this channel. Amazing video, thank you for that!!
Loved this film. Bought it after it was released on Blu-Ray, but was disappointed when there was no sequel in the works. Especially from David Fincher.
Same :\
There was already three swedish films adapted from the books so it probably seemed pointless to Fincher to complete the franchise. Plus those actors have busy schedules.
Still devastated this trilogy was never resumed.
Before I even evaluated this evaluation, I saw it was LFTS and decided that this was the most comprehensible interpretation, of an interpretation. Believe me, that's a solid compliment.Thanks, Michael.
I love hearing stuff in these videos which will be relevant to a career in both screen writing and directing. Keep up the great work.
Im glad somebody else loves this movie! Every time I try to bring it up its virtues, I always get something along the lines of "the original is waaaayyyy better. You should watch the original." Well I have, and this one, in my humble opinion, is way better.
Yeah man, people love to say "go watch the original" and I always answer the same thing. I did watch, and the Fincher one is actually waaaaayyy better.
i saw the original first and once you get past the starpower of Daniel Craig you will see the original much clearer.
The same thing happens when I bring up why I love The Ring (2002).
I love this. When I'm writing I like to write what is natural and hate to squish it into a 3 act structure. I look forward to the future of cinema and us experimenting more.
you should listen to any Stephen Gaghan podcast then! he hates conventional structure, and tells the secret to a successful -according to Tolstoy but who cares right? wink wink - is not that formulaic crap, but what's the four important elements in order, to write a great novel (or a film), the first one is NOT story. But:
1- Transitions. (They energize the story)
2- Context
3- Character
4- Story (LAST)
this strips away formula!
keeps you in a creative state where the best things come from nowhere
This makes me even more sad that Fincher didnt get to finish his trilogy...
Jesus... this video essay is just phenomenal. The level of detail this employs is just fantastic. Well done!
I cannot begin to describe how much I love this channel!
Your narrative is brilliant and reflects the depth of your love and understanding for movies as an art! Looking forward to more and more great lessons.
P.S. - You have an exquisite voice Michael!