Gone Girl Parent Guide

Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck) receives immediate sympathy when wife Amy (Rosamund Pike) vanishes on their fifth wedding anniversary. But that sentiment is quickly displaced by suspicion. After an interrogation by Detective Boney (Kim Dickens), it appears Nick is somewhat ambivalent about his spouse’s disappearance. He also seems to know little about her, including the identity of her best friend. (It is only upon his return home that Nick meets Noelle—played by Casey Wilson—who emphatically informs him she is Amy’s favorite chum.)

As Amy’s parents, the community and the media becomes more involved with the story of the missing woman, the idea that Nick may be responsible gains momentum. The only person not onboard the accusation train is Nick’s sister Margo (Carrie Coon). Yet we know, from a flashback of an earlier conversation between the siblings, that Nick was not excited about the upcoming anniversary celebration. Nor was he enthusiastic about participating in Amy’s traditional scavenger hunt, where she leaves little hints leading to a big surprise. And this year, with the police watching his every move, the game is taking on a very different and alarming meaning. Each new clue only seems to further indict a bewildered Nick, who continues to plead his innocence.

Skillfully directed, edited and written, Gone Girl is worthy of the awards attention it has obtained (nominations include Best Picture from the Critics Choice Awards, and Best Actress -Rosamund Pike - from the Academy Awards). The engaging thriller offers numerous plot twists and points a finger at the public, and the way we jump to conclusions based on what pieces of information the media shares. It presents an interesting spin on the factors that influence popular opinion/bias. That’s the good news.

What won’t be as appreciated are the profanities, sexual content and violent portrayals contained in this R-rated movie. One interlude depicting sexual activity (which includes breast nudity) ends with a murder and explicit blood effects. Other scenes show violent altercations and a character fantasizing about suicide. Parents can also expect numerous sexual expletives, scatological slang, crude anatomical terms, and religious exclamations. Also concerning are substance abuse, purchases of illegal drugs, intravenous needle use, drinking and some smoking.

Although the film is finely crafted and features good performances, its mature themes and graphic content will likely have many family viewers choosing to let this girl go.

About author

Donna Gustafson

Donna Gustafson has been involved with her husband Rod's work since the beginning. Handling many of the behind-the-scenes tasks, she also creates preview pages for up-coming movies, acts as managing editor and occasionally writes reviews.