In 1991, author/screenwriter Bret Easton Ellis published a book titled, “American Psycho.” The story focuses on Patrick Bateman living a double life as a Wall Street investor and serial killer. Nine Years Later a film adaptation starring Christian Bale was released in 2000. (same year Requiem for a Dream came out) It received positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. Plus, it made enough revenue at the box office. Overtime, American Psycho gained a cult following and spawned memes online. A direct-to-video sequel starring Mila Kunis ruined the first movie. In the words of Jim from “Code Lyoko.” “I’d rather not talk about it.”
Christian Bale’s most recent film “The Pale Blue Eye is streaming on Netflix. Lionsgate announced a television series based on American Psycho is in the works. One more thing, Mr. Bale’s next project is “The Church of Living Dangerously.”
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. Feel free to read my non-spoiler article.
Clean & Messy Aspects
Clean: Christian Bale did a phenomenal job for his performance as Patrick Bateman. He stated his performance is based on Tom Cruise. Another influence is Nicolas Cage’s hammy performance in “Vampire ‘s Kiss.” The latter will play Dracula in the upcoming horror-comedy “Renfield.”
Fun Fact: Leonardo “Leo” DiCaprio was considered for the role of Patrick Bateman. He turned it down in favor of Danny Boyle’s “The Beach.” Christian mentioned he owes Leo a career for turning down the role.
Other Cast Members such as Chloe Sevigny, Willem Dafoe, Josh Lucas, Justin Theroux, Reese Witherspoon & Jared Leto all did a great job for their respective performances.
Death Scenes are brutal. If you have a weak stomach, grab a barf bag. My favorite has got to be Patrick dropping a chainsaw on the ground.
Cinematography never succumbed to Shaky Cam.
The Tone is a mix between horror and black comedy perfectly balanced.
My favorite line is, “I have to return some videotapes.”
Soundtrack contains songs from the 80s. Although an overused song in movies/TV shows, “Walking on Sunshine” suits well with Patrick walking to his office. It also became a meme. Another thing, Walking on Sunshine is Fry’s favorite song from “Futurama.”
The film takes place in the ’80s bringing up certain fads from the decade.
Pacing didn’t feel fast or slow. My eyes were glued to the TV.
Primary Themes are Pride, Greed, Jealousy, Consumerism, Capitalism, Hypocrisy & Social Class. Each one is handled maturely.
Without giving anything away, The Ending is open to interpretation.
If you own a DVD/Blu-Ray copy, the filmmakers discuss the process on making Amercian Psycho. I want The Criterion Collection to digitally restore it on 4K.
Messy: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
From my point of view, American Psycho is a fascinating slasher movie as well as one of my favorite movies of 2000. A villain-based movie ten times better than “Cruella.” If you haven’t seen this cult classic, it’s a must watch worth your spare time. “American Psycho 2” doesn’t count as a legit sequel so skip that.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 