Gone Girl Analysis

Saul Dibb in his 2008 film The Duchess and Gillian Flynn in her 2012 novel Gone Girl both deconstruct the bases that form trust and deception within relationships and society. Although Flynn’s thriller of twists and Dibb’s 18th century drama depict two diverse settings the texts both present the idea that trust is an unrealistic expectation within relationships, as relationships are created from idealism of the perfect partner. Both texts explore the importance of appearance within society, as Flynn uses the power of social media while Dibb uses the influence of rumors and new paper articles to create an unlinking pressure on the individual relationships. In both texts trust and deception have been conveyed through symbolism, characterization, setting, camera angles and
Flynn’s thriller establishes marriage as an illusion of trust and deception by influencing the reader with rhetorical questions of Nick’s thoughts about his wife Amy, “What are you thinking? How are you feeling? Who are you?”. Flynn ironically uses Amy’s annual anniversary treasure hunt to expose the anger and resentment within their relationship. Amy’s treasure hunt is first introduced as a symbol of Amy’s love for Nick, but is soon revealed through Nicks passive aggressive perspective as a reminder of the disappointment Amy’s feels towards Nick,“ Don’t think I don’t see the gender roles here”, as he suggest the treasure hunt is merely a mind game to imply that Nick should be more romantic and attentive. Amy’s resentment becomes clear to Nick when it is revealed that Amy’s five year anniversary treasure hunt is manipulated into the ultimate attack against Nick as Amy reveals her intentions to frame Nick for her Murder as she disappears,“ For this anniversary, I’ve arranged a trip: Follow your beloved river, up up up!”. Amy’s last clue exposes her deceitful intentions and resentment towards her husband