Headhunters

This is the first of two foreign films I've seen of late and despite the hype surrounding each one, they've delivered more than what was expected - something most english-speaking features fail to do these days!
Headhunters is 'the next big thing from northern europe'(Norway this time). Comparables have been made with the original Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, but they're very different animals!
The original novel was written by Jo Nesbo. Nesbo is famous for his Harry Hole series of books, but whether he'll revisit the characters in this story is unclear. Not having read the original book, I couldn't say how the film compares.
The film works very well as a stand-alone tale, regardless. It's tightly written, full of twists and turns and fabulous characters. This is a 'no stone left unturned' type of deal - and it's riveting!
The lead character, Roger Brown, is a head hunter for Pathfinder, the exclusive company he works for by day - after hours, he steals paintings(the expensive kind)! Both activities earn him a substantial amount of money, which allows him to live in the style to which he's become accustomed.
Things don't stay cushy for too long of course, as Brown soon finds himself on the run(head-hunted himself) after his two worlds collide.
It would be unfair to say much more, as the surprises and twists don't let up! I will mention the unusual sense of humour that rears it's head from time to time - 'pitch-black' comedy, you might say! Some people may find it distracting, but fans of the Coen brothers(for example) will certainly find it entertaining.
There's a few gory moments to be had and the tension is taut - so much so, I was almost in the seat behind me!
This is a superbly crafted thriller with a web-like plot to keep the brain active - 4/5!