underestimating opponents

His films like *Gone Girl* and *The Social Network* center on characters whose intelligence and cunning are systematically underestimated by those around them until it's too late.

He repeatedly subverts expectations by making seemingly powerless or foolish characters reveal unexpected agency and intelligence, as seen in *The Killing of a Sacred Deer* and *Poor Things*.

His thrillers like *Prisoners* and *Enemy* build tension through protagonists who misjudge their opponents' capabilities and resilience, leading to catastrophic consequences.