The Girl

In Stockholm, journalist Mikael Blomkvist faces the fallout of losing a libel case against the corrupt businessman Hans-Erik Wennerström. This loss significantly impacts Blomkvist's professional credibility and sets the stage for his subsequent investigation.

Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant hacker, is tasked with compiling a background check on Blomkvist for Henrik Vanger, a wealthy industrialist. Her research leads to a significant revelation that connects Blomkvist to a pivotal investigation.

Blomkvist agrees to investigate the disappearance of Harriet Vanger, who went missing 40 years ago during a family gathering on a Swiss island. The promise of revealing damaging information about Wennerström motivates Blomkvist to undertake the investigation.

During the Vanger family’s annual board meeting, an accident blocks the only bridge to the island for 24 hours. In this isolated timeframe, young Harriet Vanger mysteriously disappears, prompting decades of speculation and investigation.

After her previous guardian suffers a stroke, Lisbeth Salander is assigned to lawyer Nils Bjurman. However, Bjurman abuses his power, leading to a shocking confrontation between him and Salander that dramatically changes their dynamic.

After suffering abuse at the hands of her guardian, Salander retaliates in a calculated manner, using a hidden camera as leverage. She blackmails Bjurman into granting her independence and control over her finances, symbolizing her reclaiming power.

Blomkvist relocates to a cottage on the Vanger estate to delve deeper into Harriet's case. He uncovers a list of names in Harriet’s Bible that proves crucial in connecting past events to the mystery surrounding her disappearance.

While investigating further, Blomkvist discovers that the names from Harriet's notebook link to a series of murders of young women. This revelation exposes a pattern that raises suspicions about the connections to the Vanger family’s history.

As Blomkvist and Salander delve into the dark aspects of the Vanger family's past, they develop a romantic relationship. Their personal connection strengthens as they work together to unravel the complex web of deceit surrounding Harriet's case.

Blomkvist confronts Martin Vanger, Harriet's brother, in a dramatic showdown. Martin boasts about his past crimes, but the encounter culminates in Salander rescuing Blomkvist, showcasing her resourcefulness and strength.

After Martin escapes, Salander pursues him on her motorcycle. Their chase culminates in a deadly accident when Martin loses control of his vehicle on an icy road, marking a significant turn in the investigation.

Blomkvist uncovers the truth about Harriet's survival and her identity under the name of her cousin Anita. This revelation culminates in a poignant reunion between Harriet and Henrik Vanger, showcasing the emotional depth of the narrative.

With the evidence in hand, Blomkvist publishes an article that dismantles Wennerström's empire. This not only restores Blomkvist's credibility but also highlights Salander's role in orchestrating the downfall of a corrupt businessman.

Salander uses her skills to steal from Wennerström, leaving him with no escape. This act serves as a powerful conclusion to her arc of empowerment and revenge against her oppressors.

As Salander prepares to give Blomkvist a Christmas gift, she witnesses him with his partner Erika. Overcome with emotion and feeling rejected, she decides to discard the gift, illustrating her internal struggle and longing.