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. (09/10/2022)

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? (03/29/2009)

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. (05/11/2004)

I like Dave Fincher for his talent to "create" a great atmosphere and imprint a specific style on each film. Nevertheless, he has a problem with The Game, because this screenwriting mystification seems to me to be a disposable film. It’s not that I didn't enjoy watching the way the whole game with the viewer played out, and it’s not that Fincher didn't give the film his typical directing style. It's just that it’s missing that the vague, sparkling thing that, for example, Seven has. On the other hand, this is a pure and very straightforward thriller, so blaming it for the lack of depth is unfair. It’s good enough film material to entertain. (03/28/2006)

The most sophisticated of David Fincher's films. I could watch it over and over again and The Game would still be fascinating to me. The paranoid atmosphere is taken to the absolute peak and poor Michael Douglas is effortlessly placed in the most absurd situations, which still give me chills to this day. (02/25/2007)