Director Tate Taylor’s portrayal of Paula Hawkins’ best-selling novel “The Girl on the Train” offers a one-of-a-kind psychological thriller experience. The movie was released on Oct. 7, starring Emily Blunt, Haley Bennett and Rebecca Ferguson. “I have lost control over everything, even the places inside my head,” Hawkins said. “It’s as if people can see the damage written all over me, can see it in my face, the way I hold myself, the way I move.” Photo fair use of Universal Pictures.
By ANDREW CALDWELL – Print Junior Copy Editor
“The Girl on the Train” provides more than just the typical shock factor by combining brilliant acting, shots and plot reveals, making for an outstandingly unnerving movie.
Based on Paula Hawkins’ psychological best-selling novel, “The Girl on the Train”, directed by Tate Taylor, hit the big screen on Oct. 7.
The movie is divided into different perspectives just like the book, telling the story of three troubled women: Rachel Watson (Emily Blunt), Megan Hipwell (Haley Bennett) and Anna Watson (Rebecca Ferguson).
Rachel, an alcoholic divorcée, catches daily glimpses into the lives of a seemingly perfect couple, Scott (Luke Evans) and Megan Hipwell, from the window of the train she takes every day to New York City.
One day, while on the train, Rachel witnesses something in the backyard of the couple’s home. When Megan goes missing and is feared to be dead, Rachel tells the authorities what she saw. Due to Rachel’s alcoholism, she is unable to rely on her whereabouts of the night on which Megan went missing. Rachel then begins to investigate without realizing that her actions make her out to be the perfect suspect.
The fast-paced, chilling scenes do not disappoint. Every intense moment is supported by superb acting, not to mention every shot is stunning and absolutely breathtaking.
The movie does more than a fantastic job of putting the viewer in the character’s mind to fully understand their mental instability. While those who have not read the book may find the time jumps from past to present somewhat confusing, nothing is too difficult to follow.
Similarly to the book, the audience is just as confused as Rachel as she slowly recalls the events of the night Megan went missing, making the experience even more enjoyable and shocking.
Like most transitions from page to screen, “The Girl on the Train” fails to incorporate scenes that are found in the novel such as Scott locking Rachel in a bedroom and the gym bag reveal. These excluded parts may disappoint fans of the book.
The R-rated movie also contains nudity and profanity which may be inappropriate for younger viewers.
Overall, “The Girl on the Train” is the perfect Halloween thriller that is daring, unnerving and keeps you guessing until the very end.
