The Girl

Journalist Mikael Blomkvist loses a libel case against corrupt businessman Hans-Erik Wennerström, significantly affecting his career and reputation. This loss sets the stage for his subsequent investigation into the Vanger family.

Lisbeth Salander is tasked with researching Blomkvist's background by businessman Henrik Vanger. In exchange for crucial information on Wennerström, Blomkvist agrees to investigate the decades-old disappearance of Vanger's great-niece, Harriet.

Harriet Vanger vanished in 1966 during a family gathering on a Swiss island, coinciding with an accident that blocked access to the mainland for 24 hours. This mysterious event becomes central to Blomkvist's investigation into her disappearance.

Blomkvist relocates to a cottage on the Vanger estate to delve deeper into Harriet’s disappearance. He learns about the dark history of the Vanger family, including their connections to the Swedish Nazi Party.

While exploring Harriet's belongings, Blomkvist finds a notebook filled with names and numbers, which had baffled investigators for years. This discovery hints at deeper connections and becomes a key element in unraveling Harriet's fate.

Lisbeth Salander faces abuse at the hands of her new guardian, Nils Bjurman, who seeks to exploit her vulnerability. Salander retaliates violently, utilizing her intellect and resourcefulness to turn the tables on Bjurman.

After realizing Salander's exceptional skills, Blomkvist decides to enlist her help in deciphering the notebook. Together, they uncover a chilling series of murders linked to Harriet, shedding light on a pattern of anti-Semitism among the Vanger family.

Blomkvist finds himself in grave danger when he is shot at by a mysterious figure dressed in deer hunting attire. This incident heightens the stakes, revealing how deeply the investigation has unearthed family secrets.

Blomkvist breaks into the home of Martin Vanger, Harriet's brother, in search of more evidence. The confrontation escalates as Martin reveals his violent past, leading to a critical moment for Blomkvist's survival.

Salander chases down Martin after he flees, leading to a horrifying car crash that results in his death. This event marks a pivotal conclusion to the dangers posed by the Vanger family in the investigation.

Blomkvist uncovers that Harriet is alive and has been living under her cousin Anita's identity to escape her abusive family. This revelation leads to a profound reunion between Harriet and Henrik Vanger.

After obtaining vital evidence from Salander, Blomkvist publishes an article that decimates Wennerström's reputation. This culmination of their efforts leads to Wennerström's eventual flight from justice.

In a deftly executed hacking operation, Salander drains Wennerström's illicit funds and leaves him vulnerable to his past crimes. This act of vengeance aligns with her complex ethical stance against those who exploit the weak.

Salander discovers her feelings for Blomkvist, but her heart is crushed when she sees him with his partner, Erika Berger. This moment of realization leads her to distance herself from the relationship, resulting in emotional turmoil.

Blomkvist and Salander part ways after their intense collaboration, each grappling with their own feelings and unresolved pasts. The conclusion leaves room for personal growth for both characters as they move forward into their uncertain futures.