Every few years a book (yes, people still read) comes along and grabs the attention of what seems to be a nation. About five years ago it was The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. And then Gone Girl (written by Gillian Flynn) seemed to take over in the same manner. Gone Girl was a rare page turning mystery novel that didn’t necessarily bring anything new to the table in terms of plot, but it was beautifully written and far better than it should have been. Ms. Flynn has a knack for getting into the characters’ psyche and her ability to write from two completely different perspectives is something that can not be overlooked. These novels become the topic of conversations until you just have to read them…or wait for the movie. The problem is those never are as good. However, rest assured fans of the beloved Gone Girl the book is every bit a tortured, twisted, and pleasurable experience when transposed to the screen.
It’s difficult to write a review on such twisty and well-known source material without giving away some key details to those who haven’t read the novel, but I will try. Amy and Nick’s union appears like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting from afar, but there’s trouble brewing in paradise. Nick seems just a bit unhappy. However, on the day of the couple’s fifth wedding anniversary, Amy goes missing and Nick becomes the prime suspect. Utilizing flashbacks from Amy’s diary, we are invited into each character’s frame of mind and the unraveling of their union. That’s all you really need to know going into the film.
Also, Gone Girl is much more a dark comedy than you would think. It has its share of creepy moments, but you will find yourself laughing at Margo Dunne’s jokes and the film’s portrayal of the media and their fickle ways.
At the end of the day, Gone Girl is an exploration of the exploitative nature of the media. They just want a good story, whether or not they have all the facts. It’s also a meditation on just how well we know our mates. Do we ever really know what the other is thinking? Can we ever be too sure what they are doing when we aren’t around? It’s fascinating to watch the disintegration of Nick and Amy’s relationship played by the actors with such gravitas.
My only gripe with the film (also written by Ms. Flynn) is the very end. I was hoping it would’ve been slightly tweaked this time around, but it sure remains unsettling. Gone Girl is a must see film with stellar performances and the ability to stay inside your head long after the credits roll.
Matt Santia
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