A shot of Rosamund Pike’s head and a voice-over from Ben Affleck describing how he wants to smash it in. And so begins Gone Girl…
Adapted from the best selling novel by Gillian Flynn, who is also the screenwriter of the film, the basic plot revolves around Amy Dunne (Pike) going missing and the efforts to find her. The film’s first act sets up the movie that we’ve seen in the trailers: is Amy Dunne dead? Did Ben Affleck kill her? Did Neil Patrick Harris kill her? The answers to these questions completely overhaul the film into something more like a revenge story, of the kind which might populate a Tarantino film. (I’m trying my best to not spoil the story but it is worth mentioning.)
In truth the film is an exploration of cinema itself, and what we do or do not see. We are not shown some of the more outlandish scenes of violence that Amy talks about, so we doubt if they ever happened. We are completely shrouded in a mystery that is unclear in terms of legitimate motivation and, even at the very end of the film, the lines between protagonist and antagonist are blurred. The ambiguous ending of the film merely mirrors the ambiguity of the entire film generally. We cannot be sure of anything.
Of course, it is a David Fincher film, so his casting is impeccable, the acting is great and his use of the camera is always interesting to watch, however, this film does not have typically beautiful shots that leave you salivating as they would in another film. But I believe this works in highlighting the story and the script, both of which are sharp and brutal.
I think we’ve established that I don’t go to see films that I am not excited and willing to watch, but Gone Girl, more than most, may just be the cinematic highlight of my entire year. I genuinely adored this film, to the point where I cannot find much fault. This movie is about perception, and seeing what you want to see, so without meaning to sound corny – you’ll want to see this film.
Sojourner McKenzie is starting her second year of an English and Film degree and spends most of her time ranting at no-one in particular about everything. Follow her on Twitter @runsojrun
Feature Image: Press “It’s important to find your people. Don’t feel like you have to find this incredible producer or person who’s going to give you loads of money and change your life” says Lauerence Tratalos, one-half of the Northern duo responsible for Misper; a feature debut for director Harry Sheriff and script writer Tratalos….
Featured image and gallery: Lucy Elson-Whittaker Fuel Café Bar in Withington hosts the fifth stop of six-piece band Ignoring Izzy’s ‘Motorway Musk’ tour, following the release of their debut single. The room buzzes with the promise of chaos, and possibly a few flying vegetables. Opening the night is Manchester-based Leucotome, a witch-folk trio blending soft,…
Featured image and gallery: Sub Khan Opening the night, Gabrielle eases the Co-op Live crowd into the spectacular night ahead. There’s no need for spectacle, her presence alone is enough with her deep vocals echoing around the arena. A performance rooted in control and feeling, each song reveals a different shade of her understated command. Operating…
Featured image and gallery: Sam Holmes Formed in Belfast in 2019, Chalk have already made a name for themselves. From support slots for Fontaines D.C., IDLES and Sprints, to taking to the stage at SXSW earlier this year, the band’s growth has been rapid and shows no signs of stopping. Touring their debut album Crystalpunk,…
Leave a reply