The Girl On The Train...a movie/book review

I can't believe I never did a book review of The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins...but a quick perusal of my blog tells me I didn't - which is odd, because I LOVED the book but that is being remedied with this post.

I loved that book so much so that when the movie came out I texted my friend that we should see it, in addition to a local play.  Since the play was coming to a close, we figured we'd go to the play last weekend first and then schedule ourselves another date for the movie.  Unfortunately, we waited too late to buy the tickets for the play and were unable to secure two seats together.  As a backup plan, we decided on the movie.

My friend went into the movie cold - as in she hasn't read the book - I don't know whether or not she'd heard anything about the book or the movie; but basically she went in without really knowing what to expect.

Truth be told, I did too in a way.  I remembered the basic premise of the book - there's a girl on the train and she sees this "perfect" couple in this perfect house every day.  While her life is currently in shambles, in her mind she imagines what their perfect life might be like.  And because of her demons, is drawn into their lives and a missing persons case.

What I had forgotten - this is a story told from three different women's perspectives - which can be confusing if you aren't completely focused on the story.  But the most important part that I'd forgotten?  The ending.  Which is really surprising considering the ending, but honestly?  As much as I read, I'm not surprised.

The ending ties everything together - so even if you've missed a few things here and there (either while reading or watching) it still all becomes clear.

When it was over, my friend looked at me and said, "That was THE most intense movie I've seen in a long time!"  And I had to agree.

Based on my (vague) recollection, the movie faithfully followed the book - which is rare.  So if you haven't read it, read it.  If you don't want to read it but are intrigued by the movie, go see it.  Or even better, do both!

Have you seen it?  Read it?  What were your thoughts?