To the delight of the numerous diehards of a world-renowned novel "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn, there has recently been a release of an onscreen adaptation. Being amongst those who had already familiarized themselves with the novel, I was in eager anticipation to see a film version of the acclaimed mysterious story of Nick and Amy Dunnes.
The first thing to be said about is the plot. As the narrative begins, the reader gets immediately gripped by the storyline which starts after the main character Amy Dunne goes missing. Gradually, the reader is being unconsciously involved in a consequent investigation, with all those tricks inherent in any thrillers. Unexpected turns of the plotline, suspicious characters, and plethora of clues to keep viewers in suspense throughout the whole story, until it comes to unexpected ending – these all await you once you decide to dive into that story.
Granted, the screenplay version bears a lot in common with the original book story, there are some differences, which are quite noteworthy nevertheless. Even though the screenplay was written by the author herself, yet it dismisses a few moments that I find essential, as many things in the film remain unclear because of that. Amy’s parents’ role, Nick’s father’s disorder, exclusion of some characters, etc. deprive the film of a vast number of details that make a big difference of the whole picture.
Speaking of the characters, from my standpoint, Ben Affleck is miscast. So unconvincing was his acting that he completely failed to show all the spectrum of emotions he was supposed to have gone through as opposed to his book prototype.
All in all, I feel rather conflicted about the film. On the one hand, by the virtue of the talented writer, Mrs. Flynn, we are able to relish a twisted story of incredibly shrewd and painstakingly prepared revenge of the cheated woman brought to the screen by a wonderful Rosamund Pike. On the other hand, the film loses versus the original version, as there are lots of ambiguities left evidently due to the screenplay shortcomings.
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