Film: Gone Girl

GENRE: Drama/Mystery

RATING: R for violence, strong sexual content & language
RUNTIME: 2 hours and 29 minutes

STARRING: Ben Affleck (Argo, The Town, Good Will Hunting)

Rosamund Pike (Jack Reacher), Neil Patrick Harris (HIMYM, Smurfs)

DIRECTOR: David Fincher (Social Network, Fight Club, Panic Room)

WRITER: Gillian Flynn (newcomer, based on her novel)

PLOT: A husband becomes the main suspect when his wife goes missing, but many twists ensue.  

FIVE OBSERVATIONS:

1 What an engrossing film! I was riveted the entire time. Fincher is meticulous in his direction and it shows. This is a perfectly crafted film. Fincher also often deals with some pretty messed up storylines. There is some of that too.

2 One of the reasons this film works so well is the music from Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails, Social Network). I never felt manipulated by the music. It only added fullness to the film. Beautifully done. 

3 While there is great acting all around especially from Affleck and Pike, my favourite character is the twin sister Margo, played by Carrie Coon (The Leftovers). She was a treat to watch.

4 Loved the risks that Fincher took with his cast, putting comedic actors in serious role like Harris, Tyler Perry (Madea) and Casey Wilson (Happy Endings). Also enjoyed seeing Patrick Fugit (Almost Famous) again.  

5 While the film runs a bit long and I would usually complain, this one kept me intrigued the whole time.

RECOMMENDATION: See it in the theatre
UPCOMING REVIEWS: The Judge