The Game

I certainly have a long-built fondness for the great Michael Douglas films of the 80s and 90s, and Fincher's The Game is one of the highlights of that great era. Who can resist suspense thrillers in which Michael practically never leaves the screen? He's partnered with Sean Penn and Deborah Kara Unger, the subject matter is period-appropriate in many ways and it's all very enjoyable. Such an indulgence is irresistible. (2022-09-10)

The excellently written character of Michael Douglas and an interesting topic are undeniable advantages, but the uneven pace and slightly disjointed sequence of scenes are clear shortcomings of this peculiar film. The fact is, though, that David Fincher avoids any thematic clichés and each of his films is original and different. Douglas is outstanding again, and this time he is aptly supported by Sean Penn. The plot is nicely unconventional and full of captivating scenes. The question is, how much are you willing to embrace Fincher's game. (2004-05-11)

Typical Fincher. The script is meticulously detailed, exuding escalating tension and, in this case, increasing anxiety about the fate of a protagonist playing against all odds. A grim production design, a superb Douglas and a host of brilliant directorial flourishes; The Game boasts it all, and it all works in such a perfect symbiosis that it's a joy to watch. The only big question mark for me is the ending; it’s certainly well shot, fits well into Fincher's patchwork and managed to shock me quite a bit, but I wasn't expecting such a simple explanation of such a big plot, so down a notch. (2012-06-15)

Michael Douglas, Sean Penn, and David Fincher – you just can't go wrong. While this is far from Fincher's best film, it is very respectably above average. Suspense, a fair amount of "mystery", a great performance by Michael Douglas, an uncomplicated plot, and a nice ending – that's everything The Game offers. Are you ready to play? (2009-03-29)

For me, the weakest Fincher's film, not so much because of the direction, where the director sets the bar, but because of the overly contrived script, where it's better not to think about certain parts at all, otherwise the viewer will realize that it simply cannot work. In terms of acting, however, it is an interestingly cast film and especially well-performed - Michael Douglas and Sean Penn belong to the top of the acting profession, and I have a weakness for Deborah Kara Undger. She can give an erotic charge to her female characters. But I really disliked that script with lots of seemingly effective plot twists. Overall impression: 45%. (2006-06-18)