If you needed any proof about the importance of the director in the filmmaking process, cast your gaze toward 'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,' which David Fincher transforms from a stock adult thriller into something so much more. Part of that is because of his success with actors. As the titular tattooed female, Rooney Mara becomes an instant star with an iconic performance as Lisbeth Salander, one that will likely be copied and discussed for years to come. As her cohort, disgraced journalist Mikael Blomkvist, Daniel Craig provides needed stability, while having more fun than he ever seems to in the James Bond films. Buoyed by Fincher's expert technique, 'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' is the mainstream movie of the year ... for adults. No small task, this one delivers on the hype. -- C.R.

If you needed any proof about the importance of the director in the filmmaking process, cast your gaze toward 'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,' which David Fincher transforms from a stock adult thriller into something so much more. Part of that is because of his success with actors. As the titular tattooed female, Rooney Mara becomes an instant star with an iconic performance as Lisbeth Salander, one that will likely be copied and discussed for years to come. As her cohort, disgraced journalist Mikael Blomkvist, Daniel Craig provides needed stability, while having more fun than he ever seems to in the James Bond films. Buoyed by Fincher's expert technique, 'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' is the mainstream movie of the year ... for adults. No small task, this one delivers on the hype. -- C.R.