Review #32 | "American Psycho" (2000)

"Psycho" is really the only word appropriate to describe this tale of American greed and instability. Haunting figures of the Twin Towers pre-9/11 frame the playground for psychopath Patrick Bateman, played by the impeccable Christian Bale.

"American Psycho" is a very formulaic film and correlates with the calculating mind of millionaire playboy Patrick. He has leave to do just about anything he pleases until his split personality gets the better of him and turns into paranoia. The language of the film is broken towards the end of the film, and only then does the audience become subconsciously aware that they have been conditioned to the mind of Patrick until it is too late. We have already become Patrick's victims as well.

If this film was made these 16 years later it would not be so modest in it's gore. Patrick murders his victims in atrocious ways which "Game of Thrones" would be proud of. There is no lack of blood, but the implication of the action is stronger than the deed.

"American Psycho" is for fans of horror and suspense films alike as well as fans of films such as "Wolf of Wall Street."

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Rated R. Runs 1 hour 42 minutes.

Directed by Mary Harron. Starring Chrisitian Bale, Justin Therox, and Josh Lucas.