Rosamund Pike has landed the key role of Amy in David Fincher's adaptation of the mystery thriller Gone Girl. She will star opposite Ben Affleck as a wife who goes missing on her fifth wedding anniversary, with her husband Tom becoming the main suspect.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Pike - who starred in The World's End - "has been offered and is expected to accept the starring role" in the movie, which is being co-financed by 20th Century Fox and New Regency. 

It marks a major turning point in the career of the British actress who has impressed in numerous supporting roles without landing lead parts. She fended off competition from several of Hollywood's major players, including two Oscar winners in Charlize Theron and Natalie Portman, as well as Emily Blunt, Abbie Cornish and Olivia Wilde.

Neil Patrick Harris and Tyler Perry are being eyed for supporting roles, while Reese Witherspoon - who was briefly rumored for lead actress - will remain behind the camera as producer. 

It's been a busy year for Pike, who recently shot dramedy A Long Way Down with Breaking Bad's Aaron Paul, What We Did On Our Holiday with Andy Hamilton, Fouad Mikati's Return to Sender and Peter Chelsom's Hector and the Search for Happiness.

Fans of the book have already been having their say on the casting of Pike, with one Twitter user writing today, "Never heard of her but she is EXACTLY how I pictured Amy."

"Not familar with her, but maybe an unknown would be good," said another.

"The girl looks like i imagined her!" said another excited fan.

Gone Girl will go into production in September 2013.

Rosamund PikeRosamund Pike At The World's End Premiere

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