“Gone Girl” is brilliant. David Fincher uses his unique talent of creating films that are disturbing while remaining very entertaining to create a film experience that you will never forget. He seems to be comfortable working in many different genres, from “Se7en” (crime thriller) to “Fight Club” (action) to “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (fantasy) to “The Social Network” (drama) and “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ (mystery). This time, he has managed to create the “Basic Instinct” for the next generation. I never thought that anybody could surpass Sharon Stone’s psychopathic character, but Rosamund Pike may have earned an Oscar with this performance. She makes your craziest ex-girlfriend look like a walk in the park. It is difficult to discuss this film without giving away the amazing surprises, so I will be vague. The majority of the story takes place in flashback, showing the deterioration of a marriage and the suspicions that result when Pike disappears. The script does a great job of revealing new information at precisely the right time, toying with our brains, luring us into a false sense of security, and then turning our world upside down. The story is shocking, not because it is scary, but because it is completely unpredictable. I generally do not like Ben Affleck and this film is no exception. His acting is far too emotionless to play this character that requires so much empathy from the audience. Aside from Affleck, all of the acting is great. Neil Patrick Harris has a small role but plays it memorably, and Tyler Perry shows that he can do a lot more than Madea. The rest of the cast is generally composed of no-names who play the “townspeople” role in a way that makes us feel like one of them, observing and forming our own opinions about Affleck’s guilt. My largest complaint about the film is the overt sexuality that defines Pike’s character and makes for an uncomfortable date-night movie. I may not enjoy watching it, but can concede that it really elevates her character to the next level. “Gone Girl” works because it is an emotionally engaging film. You will find yourself angry and frustrated with the characters because they are simply so well written and executed. The ending is the toughest pill to swallow, but that’s what makes it so awesome. I hope to see “Gone Girl” on the Oscar ballot, particularly Fincher and Pike whose work deserves to be acknowledged by the entire film community. Don’t miss out on this one!
[Pictured: Who wouldn't feel bad about if someone who looks so innocent went missing?]
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