an incredibly well made, thoughtful and intelligent thriller

Rating: 10/10 (24 December 2012)

Warning: this review may includes contents that foreshadow contents of the movie (spoiler alert!)!
Michael Douglas plays an investment-banker, who is soon to become an immoral, reckless and lonely man. In order to avoid this development, his brother makes him a present that remains to be the central theme of the movie.
1. Plot: Numerous unexpectable and intelligent twists, especially at the end, in combination with a lack of information that is well placed throughout almost the entire movie create a suspenseful and exciting atmosphere. This plot, in which I see the excellence in this movie, has all it needs: a philosophic topic that can be found in the raised question of whether we are capable of knowing whats real and whats not; the protagonist's great motivation and desire to comprehend his surroundings and to survive; and last but not least: the high amount of absolutely great twists that keep the unpredictability steady.
2. Acting: I personally was very impressed by Sean Penn's performance that in the end effect brilliantly conveyed his characters motivation in a very subtle way. Douglas delivered a very authentic performance as well, but is not to be especially mentioned in my eyes, even though I would be incapable of spontaneously criticizing his acting in this movie. Furthermore Armin Mueller-Stahl brilliantly portrayed Anson Bear, the co-founder of Bear-Grant Publishing, who is soon to be made redundant.
3. Direction: One just has to hear the name David Fincher and it is clear that this movie is beautifully shot, absolutely aesthetic and simply outstanding concerning the direction. Once more David Fincher's sense for symmetry, beauteous colors and timing made a movie nicer to watch (at this point: thank you, Sir!).
My standpoint is that these are the things to mainly mention about this movie. There is neither an outstanding score, nor genius editing etc.. It is legit and solid, but not superb. On the other hand there is a great plot, along with a brilliant direction and nice performances that compensate these aspects and even make it one of the most intelligent and suspenseful movies I've seen so far.
Conclusion: The Game is an incredibly well made, thoughtful and intelligent thriller.