The movie begins stating that the ‘Primal questions of any marriage’ are “What are you thinking?” “How are you feeling?” and “What have we done to each other?” and that’s what this movie explores at its inception before it delves into the dark, sexy and horrifying story we see unfold. But let me break down the movie to its elements while trying to steer clear of spoilers that are quite irresistible to write.

Directed by David Fincher who previously directed movies such, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”, “The Social Network”, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”, “Zodiac” and “Fight Club” one does not need to expect any less in terms of bringing his own essence to Gone Girl which at the hands of another director may have been a much different movie.

Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck) returns home right after dropping by a bar co-owned by his twin sister Margo Dunne (Carrie Coon) on the day of his fifth anniversary to find his wife Amy Elliott-Dunne (Rosamund Pike) missing, and that is where the movie takes off, intelligently keeping the audience hooked right in. The movie beautifully crafts different timelines into a seamless piece that doesn’t bore or confuse you but rather engages you and has you at the edge of your seat. The screenplay written by Gillian Flynn, the author of the book of the same name the movie is adapted from is nothing short of amazing. This is a practice that I’d love to see more of. Authors writing screenplays for the movie adaptations of their own books, which gives the audience a clear picture of what the author exactly had in mind and something that I’m sure most would be more than willing to do perfection.

What can I say about Rosamund Pike in this movie that hasn’t already been posted everywhere on the Internet. Her performance is the epitome of the character she portrays. This is her defining role. She deserves the Golden Globe for Best Actress she’s been nominated for currently. A scene at the climax of the film, a confrontation of Affleck’s and Pike’s characters just proves the magic, weight and depth Pike brings to the movie, that scene is burnt into my retina. Powerful, powerful stuff. It reminds me of Rooney Mara’s performance on Fincher’s other film “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”. And it’s not just Pike’s performance that demands attention. Affleck carries his own weight and delivers again and again which boosts my hope for “Batman Vs Superman: Dawn of Justice” even more. Another brilliant star making performance is delivered by Carrie Coon who effortlessly plays her part with much suave.

As proof enough on “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” and “The Social Network”, Fincher’s collaboration with Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross in the creation of these movies scores have never been anything short of crisp, affecting, bold, and breathtaking. And the same is evident with Gone Girl.

The result from a combination of all of this is a dark, provocative, arousing thriller that movie screens have missed for a while and another stellar and welcome addition to David Fincher’s strong list of movies. Currently nominated for four Golden Globe awards, for Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Score and Best Actress, this film is a must watch.

Reviewed by Aasif Faiz