We heard the rumor earlier this month, but it's official: Rosamund Pike has officially joined David Fincher's adaptation of Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel 'Gone Girl.' The 'Jack Reacher' and 'The World's End' actress beat out seemingly every leading lady in Hollywood and, if Fincher brings his usual game, it may be the role that shoots her to the top of the A-list.

The news comes from The Hollywood Reporter, who say that Pike won the role over stiff competition from the likes of Charlize Theron, Natalie Portman and Emily Blunt. She'll star alongside Ben Affleck as a woman who mysteriously goes missing on her wedding anniversary, prompting a police investigation. The same report also says that Neil Patrick Harris and Tyler Perry are being eyed for other parts, making this one of the weirdest casts Fincher has ever assembled.

This is the second David Fincher film in a row to be based on a wildly successful mystery novel and to feature a widely sought after female lead. Like how 'The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' propelled Rooney Mara to the top of her field, 'Gone Girl' could be the part that sees Pike finally stepping into the spotlight after being a more-than-capable supporting player for much of her career. And you know what? It's about time. Pike is terrific.

'Gone Girl' will begin filming in September from a screenplay adapted by Flynn.

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