Se7en Plot Synopsis
A Dark Crime Thriller Unveiling the Depths of Human Sin
Se7en, a gripping crime thriller directed by David Fincher, delves into the twisted minds of a rookie detective, David Mills, and a seasoned veteran, Detective Lieutenant William Somerset. Together, they embark on a harrowing journey to capture a meticulous serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as motivation for his gruesome murders. As the detectives unearth the chilling truth behind the killer’s motives, they soon realize that their own lives are at stake in this dark and haunting tale.
Tracy’s Hidden Secret
The narrative begins with Detective Somerset, who is just days away from retirement, joining forces with Detective Mills. Mills has recently moved to the town with his wife Tracy, who is carrying a secret. Unbeknownst to Mills, Tracy confides in Somerset, forging a close bond between them. Both Somerset and Tracy share similar views on her predicament, prompting Somerset to advise her to inform Mills about the impending arrival of their child.
The Gruesome Murders Unfold
The first crime scene introduces audiences to an indescribably grim scenario, reminiscent of a scene from the 2003 film, “The Butterfly Effect.” The detectives arrive at a repugnant kitchen where an obese man has been brutally force-fed until his stomach bursts. Bound at the ankles and wrists, he lies as a bucket beneath the table collects his vomit. The coroner deduces that this agonizing torture endured for over 12 hours. This heinous act represents the sin of Gluttony.
Another victim soon emerges, a criminal defense attorney, who is compelled to slice a pound of flesh from his own body, symbolizing greed. Clues at the murder scenes lead the detectives to the suspect’s apartment, where they discover a third victim. This unfortunate man, a drug dealer and child molester, embodies the sin of sloth. Although still alive, he is critically wounded, rendering him unable to assist the detectives. However, a collection of daily photographs indicating premeditation furnishes them with valuable evidence.
Unmasking the Culprit
Through meticulous investigation and library records, Somerset and Mills identify a suspect named John Doe and track him to his apartment. During the pursuit, Mills injures his arm while chasing Doe. Cornered, Doe is struck in the head but not killed, as he plays a crucial role in Doe’s future plans. The detectives discover an abundance of notebooks in Doe’s apartment, exposing his psychopathic tendencies and the immense danger he poses.
As the investigation progresses, Somerset and Mills find themselves caught off-guard when Doe willingly surrenders to the police, his body covered in the blood of an unidentified victim. Doe offers to confess his crimes under one condition: Somerset and Mills must escort him to a hidden location where the victims of Envy and Wrath are buried. Should they refuse, Doe plans to plead insanity.
The Climactic Revelation
Reluctant yet intrigued, Somerset and the feisty Mills agree to Doe’s terms. During their journey, Doe reveals his lack of remorse for his acts, presenting himself as a martyr chosen by a higher power to awaken the world from its apathy. Tensions escalate as Doe makes threatening remarks towards Mills, hinting at a chilling climax that awaits.
Arriving at a remote, desolate area, the detectives encounter a delivery van. Mills holds Doe at gunpoint, while Somerset receives a box from the driver, intended for “a guy called David” as per Doe’s instructions. Somerset opens the box, warning Mills to stay back. The contents within unravel the final game orchestrated by Doe: Tracy’s decapitated head. Consumed by grief and distraught, Mills becomes an unwitting pawn in Doe’s plan, succumbing to the sin of Wrath.
A Tragic Ending
In a moment of sheer brutality, Mills shoots Doe, unknowingly fulfilling the killer’s master plan. The police swiftly arrive, arresting Mills, while Somerset gazes gravely, promising to remain vigilant. The film concludes on a bleak note, a departure from the studio’s initial desires.
Alternate Endings and the Final Vision
The original ending of Se7en underwent several revisions due to the studio’s discomfort with its bleakness. Proposed alterations included Somerset intervening before Mills could shoot Doe, resulting in a significant clash between the detectives. Another alternative involved Doe holding Tracy hostage, necessitating a race against time to save her life.
Fortunately, the cast and director stood their ground, ensuring that the film retained its iconic and haunting conclusion. The uncompromising vision prevailed, ultimately delivering a truly remarkable detective thriller that defied conventional expectations.
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