American Psycho

Synopsis: Bret Easton Ellis’ dark and violent satire of America in the 1980s is brought to the screen in this unsettling drama with black comic overtones. Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale), the son of a wealthy Wall Street financier, is pursuing his own lucrative career with his father’s firm. Bateman is the prototypical yuppie, obsessed with success, fashion, and style. He is also a serial killer who murders, rapes, and mutilates both strangers and acquaintances without provocation or reason.

Rating: R and Unrated versions

Run Time:1 hr. 43 min.

Director: Mary Harron

Dvd Extra’s: Interview with Christian Bale, Featurette on Making of American Psycho, Production notes, Cast and filmmakers, Theatrical Trailer

Hidden Features: Select Extras option. Then press UP and Enter to play 2 hidden mini-games.

Nudity Factor: Several shots of Bale’s butt, Porn being played on a tv in the background, Several sex scenes.

Of Note: Initial casting choices were Leonardo DiCaprio as Patrick Bateman, James Woods as Donald Kimball and Cameron Diaz as Evelyn Williams. Oliver Stone was set to direct.

Recommendations: 

Review by: Jason Schulte

Rating: 1 Star

I must say, this movie left me feeling rather underwhelmed. It strays far from the typical story pattern, lacking a proper climax, build-up, or conclusion. It’s like going on a blind date and realizing halfway through that you have nothing in common – disappointing, to say the least.

Sure, there are a few moments that might elicit a chuckle or a head shake, but overall, it’s a bit of a letdown. Bale delivers a solid performance, as expected, but even he can’t salvage this sinking ship of a storyline.

I won’t bore you with a lengthy explanation of why this movie falls short, but take my word for it – your time is better spent elsewhere. Trust me on this one and steer clear of this cinematic misfire.