Based on the anime series of the same name, Death Note tells the story of Light Yagami, a bright student with a passion for the law. Son of a high ranking police official, Light pursues the study of law with the intention of following in his father's footsteps. As the story progresses, Light learns that there is often a disconnect between the law and justice. While disillusioned he has a paranormal encounter with a Shinigami. The demon presents Light with a method to be the hand of justice, the Death Note - a notebook that possesses the power to kill those whose name is written inside.

The movie explores some deep philosophic and moral questions. Is vigilante justice true justice? What is the difference between power used to exact justice and power used to further a personal agenda? Are good intentions enough to justify an unthinkable act? Does absolute power corrupt absolutely? And what is the cost of vigilante justice on a personal and societal level?

Once a mysterious detective known as "L" enters the scene determined to catch the serial murderer who is taking the lives of convicted criminals, the audience watches as Light struggles with those ethical questions. As Light turns from his original intent and instead wields the Death Note to protect his own skin, we witness the path of corruption absolute power can create.

The interplay between these two brilliant minds is suspenseful, fascinating, and utterly riveting. The acting is superb; the manuvering between Light and L as each tries to gain the upper hand is as masterful as it is subtle. There are plots within plots, and I am very glad I watched this movie in the English dub. I would have missed much if I had divided my attention between the action on the screen and the reading of subtitles.

It is important to note that the movie is in two parts. The first movie, Death Note, ends on a cliffhanger. The second movie, Death Note: The Last Name, continues the story from the first installment and brings the tale to its bittersweet conclusion. I understand that a third movie has been made that covers a period of time that is glossed over in the second installment. I have not yet seen this third part of the tale, but fully intend to do so at the first opportunity.

I highly recommend this movie for anyone who enjoys thought provoking tales or supernatural crime thrillers. Death Note is a tale that will linger in the minds its audience long after the closing credits have run.