David Fincher is one of my favorite directors of all time. He's directed spectacular films such as 'Zodiac', 'Fight Club' and 'Seven.' So when it was announced that he was directing 'Gone Girl', a thriller based off the novel of the same name, I was immediately interested. Then the cast was revealed. With Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike and Neil Patrick Harris landing roles, everything had me hooked. I love dramas, mysteries and thrillers and 'Gone Girl' is a fantastic one, one of the best of the year.
'Gone Girl' follows the story of Nick Dunne and his wife Amy (Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike). One night, Nick is coming home on his fifth wedding anniversary and upon arrival, he finds that Amy is missing. The disappearance garners nation media attention because Amy is the author of a popular children's book series 'Amazing Amy.' Suspensions start to swirl that Nick is behind the disappearance, due to his awkward nature being misinterpreted by the media. The investigation by authorities turn up evidence that the two were in a bit of financial trouble and that their marriage may be disintegrating. It also turns up that Amy tried to purchase a gun, evidence of domestic problems and of a struggle. Finally, they find a medical report indicating that Amy may be pregnant. Nick says that has no knowledge of this. The evidence is mounting and the disappearance may not be a disappearance at all. The clock begins ticking to find Amy and for Nick to clear his name as well.
I was enthralled by this film from start to finish. I've never read the novel, but the overall look and characters suck you into the story, and world, very quickly. The story is highly original, and will keep you engaged throughout the film. It falters a little bit in the middle, but overall was very enjoyable from start to finish. David Fincher has always been great at setting the tone of a film and 'Gone Girl' is no different. The dark tone is perfect for a story of this nature and Ben Affleck is the perfect lead in this type of film. Ben Affleck turns in one of the better performances of the year. He is complimented well by Rosamund Pike as the "damsel in distress" with a dark side. This is easily her best performance of the year and carries her half of the film exceptionally. The two give powerful performances and take this film to the next level. You get to see the dark side of what fame, combined with a faltering marriage, can turn into, firsthand. Neil Patrick Harris and Tyler Perry turn is great supporting performances as well. Surprisingly, Media doesn't so up so that made this film about a million times better too. This films runs long, but it never feels long, clocking in at about two and half hours. The score is bone chilling and one of the better scores of the year. As said above, the look is superb and it's one of the best looking films of the year.
'Gone Girl' isn't one of David Fincher's top films, but it is still an outstanding film in it's own right. The story is really good and when you couple it with Affleck and Pike's acting, it becomes one of the best acted films of the year. The overall haunting feel of the film adds an anxious dimension to the film, that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the credits roll. If you're a fan of thrillers, then this film is for you. Even if you're not a fan of this type of film, you should give it a try. It's one of the top films of 2014.
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