Entertainment

Rosamund Pike in 'Gone Girl' & 7 Other Actresses Who'd Be Perfect to Play Amy

With the news that Ben Affleck will play Nick in the film adaptation of Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel Gone Girlbroke last week, it seemed only a matter of time before word of who would play Amy, the book's other central lead, would leak. Today, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that relatively unknown Rosamund Pike is the frontrunner. For more on Pike, plus seven other actresses we'd like to see vie for the part, read on. [Image: Crown Publishing Group]

by Rachel Simon

But Which One Is Best?

With the news that Ben Affleck will play Nick in the film adaptation of Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel Gone Girlbroke last week, it seemed only a matter of time before word of who would play Amy, the book's other central lead, would leak. Today, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that relatively unknown Rosamund Pike is the frontrunner. For more on Pike, plus seven other actresses we'd like to see vie for the part, read on. [Image: Crown Publishing Group]

1. Rosamund Pike

While nothing's been confirmed, it's likely Pike will be the actress who ends up with the role of Amy, and we couldn't be more pleased. While she's not an A-lister, she's racked up an impressive resume over the last several years, co-starring in films such as Jack Reacher, Pride and Prejudice, An Education, and Fracture. She'll next star in The World's End, out in August. Pike is a versatile actress who certainly looks the part, and we'd be excited to see her gain more notice from Hollywood by starring in such a coveted role.

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2. Emily Blunt

Blunt is one of three actresses who was considered for the lead until Pike showed up. Blunt, best known for her role as the hilariously cruel Emily in The Devil Wears Prada, would be perfect as Amy, a character who is sweet and charming one moment, and cold and cunning the next.

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3. Charlize Theron

Theron, also being considered, is one of the most multifaceted actresses working today. After seeing her nuanced performance in 2011's Young Adult, we're certain she'd make a fantastic Amy.

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4. Natalie Portman

Rounding out the trio of actresses whose names are in the proverbial hat, Portman would also be a strong choice for the role. She's proved that she can handle complex drama — Black Swan, Brothers, Closer — with ease, and Gone Girl would surely be no exception.

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5. Rose Byrne

Anyone who only knows Byrne as the snotty friend in Bridesmaids needs to watch just one episode of Damages to realize that the actress' dramatic talents go far beyond just being able to "ugly cry" on demand.

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6. Diane Kruger

Kruger is more famous for her fashion taste and teen-idol boyfriend Joshua Jackson than her acting roles, but that's not to say her career doesn't deserve notice. She's showed her range in films like Troy and Inglorious Basterds, and her current turn as a detective with Asperger's on FX's The Bridge is worth the watch.

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7. Michelle Williams

Williams is one of the best actors, male or female, around. She's shown that she can go from heavy drama, Brokeback Mountain, Blue Valentine — to lighter-hearted fare — Oz the Great and Powerful, My Week With Marilyn, without breaking a sweat. She has the complexity needed to take on a role as interesting as Amy.

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8. Rooney Mara

Judging by looks alone, Mara doesn't exactly fit the book's description of Amy, but that's nothing hair dye can't fix. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo actress would be a surprising but interesting choice for the role. We've seen her play dark and twisted, but can she play funny and sweet? We'd love to find out.

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