GONE GIRL

2014 / Director. David Fincher.
Review by Glenn Cochrane.

Whenever David Fincher releases a new film the conversation quickly turns to what people consider to be his best. And with each release, the decision becomes more difficult. I cannot say with certainty that GONE GIRL is his best film but I definitely need more time to mull it over because it is a clear contender. Right now I am not sure that there is a better director of 'thriller' than Fincher and this new one is truly excellent. It tells the story of woman who goes missing under suspicious circumstances and her husband who becomes the prime suspect. The accusation is supported by his unusual demeanor in the face of adversity and the projections of guilt thrust upon him by the tabloid media. To say any more is to deny you the pleasure of experiencing the film for yourself. What I can say is that it is immaculately done. Fincher is never one to fear a long running time and at a lengthy 150 minute duration, GONE GIRL never sags. It's a taut, enthralling and fascinating film. The performances are exceptional and Ben Affleck (yet again) flips a big fat proverbial bird at his critics. The biggest revelation for me was Tyler Perry. He has always irked me and I've never been a fan. I have often found his attempts to cross over from comedy to drama (as a performer) to be laborious and forced... but he NAILS IT in GONE GIRL. He plays the ruthless celebrity attorney eager to take on the case and he stole the show for me. Everyone else is great too. The score was done by Fincher's newly appointed regulars, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who previously scored THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO and THE SOCIAL NETWORK. Their new score is another winner. It perfectly suits Fincher's style and it never forces itself above the story. Sometimes less is more and Reznor and Ross know this well. GONE GIRL is a suspenseful thriller, no doubt, but it is also a chilling commentary on the state of modern media and society's willingness to accept trial by media. The national frenzy that unfolds throughout this story is frightening. I cannot wait to watch this one again and come back to you with a more resolved verdict. Is it Fincher's best?? Could be. Not sure. I do suspect it will be up for all kinds of awards come Oscar time. It's one of the year's best for me. 

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