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Here's a look at a couple movies that made debuts last week — one in theaters and one on DVD, Blu-Ray, and ON-Demand.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Starring: Michael Nyqvist and Noomi Rapace
Synopsis: This film, made in Sweden, is based on the novel from Stieg Larsson. The book has become a world-wide phenomenon, and this first film was released on DVD and Blu-Ray last Tuesday. I got a little caught up in the hype and felt hopeful that this might be a compelling film. (By the way, they are working on an American film version, possibly starring Daniel Craig and Carrey Mulligan. Actually I guess that makes it an English version.) Had I realized the literal translation of the Swedish film is "Men Who Hate Women," I might have had a better idea about this film. It contains rape scenes — yes plural. And they aren't done in the typically implied American way, rather they are a bit graphic at times. Then there are other sex scenes, then there is the actual murder mystery case, which includes Nazis and more violence against women. To say the film is dark is an understatement. The acting is done fairly well, but the story is a bit predictable. The material is a bit too dark and graphic for average viewers. It's a bit hard to see why this has become so popular, although the writing style might be more intriguing.
Rating: R for disturbing violent content including rape, grisly images, sexual material, nudity and language.
Verdict: Two stars out of four.

Predators
Starring: Adrien Brody, Topher Grace, Laurence Fishburn, and Alicia Braga
Synopsis: "Predators" is the fifth film to feature these nebulous, alien villains. It's not the worst of the films, and it's actually fairly well done, but it feels like an unnecessary sequel. The action is done fairly well and the acting is sufficient. It's not overly mysterious in terms of plot, but the execution is fairly solid. The basic problem with this film — as with so many films released this year — is that it is unnecessary. There is little original in this film, and nothing compelling. It might be a couple hours of entertainment, but it's forgettable. Unfortunately, that's what we have to say about most of the films released so far in 2010, which is shaping up to be one of the weakest years in recent memory.
Rating: R for strong creature violence, gore and pervasive language.
Verdict: One star out of four.

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