Thirty years after its release, “Se7en” gets a well-deserved refurbishment.
During a wondrous period from late 2021 to mid-2022, I had the immense pleasure of experiencing three Steven Spielberg classics showcased in IMAX theaters: West Side Story, E.T., and Jaws. Each of these films represents the pinnacle of cinematic artistry—carefully crafted, technically innovative, and profoundly transportive works of creative ingenuity. Moreover, each film utilized the IMAX format to its fullest potential.
In contrast, many modern films opt for IMAX primarily for the premium ticket prices, often neglecting the unique audiovisual opportunities the format provides. Watching something like Kraven the Hunter in IMAX can be a disheartening experience, diluting the power of both the format and the medium itself. However, witnessing a truly great film in IMAX is unparalleled as a cinematic experience.
And yes, David Fincher’s seminal thriller Se7en is, unequivocally, a capital-G great movie.
The IMAX restoration of Se7en is extraordinary. It serves as a powerful reminder of Fincher’s unique cinematic style and his ability to make films that command the biggest screen possible. Watching this restoration sparks a longing for more frequent theatrical screenings of Fincher’s work because, simply put, no one makes movies like David Fincher.
Since the theatrical release of Gone Girl in 2014, Fincher has largely operated in the streaming space, creating some of his most personal and idiosyncratic projects, such as Mindhunter, Mank, and The Killer. While it’s heartening to see him work with nearly complete creative freedom, his films demand the grandeur of the big screen. Viewing a Fincher film at home is like listening to a Beethoven symphony on a recording—it’s great, but experiencing it live is incomparable.
The IMAX presentation of Se7en highlights every aspect of the film, especially Fincher’s meticulous visual craftsmanship. Collaborating with cinematographer Darius Khondji, Fincher achieves a level of precision that feels almost obsessive but is entirely justified. Every detail—the movement of the camera, the staging of actors, the exacting focus, and the articulate lighting—creates a cohesive, alive, and utterly immersive experience.
In an era where many blockbusters rely on haphazard post-production to stitch together disparate elements, Fincher’s attention to detail stands out. His visuals are fluid yet complex, enhancing the claustrophobic dread of Arthur Max’s stunning production design. While Se7en is ostensibly set in New York, Fincher eschews traditional landmarks and wide shots, rendering the city eerily alien and suffocating.
The film’s sound design, led by Ren Klyce, is equally crucial. Before the first frame appears, Klyce immerses the audience in the world of Se7en, with external noises seeping into Somerset’s apartment. The opening scene’s interplay of visuals and sound design is a masterclass in storytelling, demonstrating Klyce’s revolutionary approach, which mirrors Fincher’s meticulous attention to detail.
Fincher’s multi-take approach also elevates performances. While some actors have found this method grueling, it allows them to explore a range of nuances, resulting in extraordinary performances. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman deliver authentic chemistry, with their evolving camaraderie serving as the backbone of the narrative. Even minor characters leave lasting impressions due to this rigorous approach.
Fincher’s method also benefits post-production, giving editor Richard Francis-Bruce an abundance of material to refine the film’s pacing and flow. The opening sequence, even before the credits roll, introduces the main players, central conflict, and themes with remarkable efficiency, thanks to Andrew Kevin Walker’s economical screenplay and the film’s disciplined editing.
The IMAX cut of Se7en underscores Fincher’s genius, from the jarring opening cut to the grim murder scene to the unnerving final act. This restoration reaffirms why Fincher’s films belong on the biggest screens, offering an unparalleled cinematic experience that shakes the very bones of its audience.
RGM GRADE
(A)
I cannot recommend seeing Se7en in IMAX strongly enough. I fervently hope this trend continues, allowing the rest of Fincher’s filmography to make its way back into theaters over the coming years—preferably in IMAX. The format uniquely amplifies the impact of films, and experiencing a masterpiece like David Fincher’s Se7en in IMAX ranks among the most transcendent experiences a film enthusiast could ever hope for.
This Post Has 2 Comments
Excellent review and tribute to one of the finest films of the 20th century. But what makes this film all the more indelible is its age – it’s 30 years old, not 20 as you began your piece with.
Thanks so much for bringing the error to our attention! Also, thanks for the kind words. Many more reviews to come!