Directed by Mary Harron, American Psycho is a crime drama based upon the book of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. The story is set in 1980s Manhattan and centres on the life of investment banker Patrick Bateman (Bale). With a life that is based around going out to fancy restaurants just to simply keep up appearances whilst also spending a large portion of his time as a serial killer, Bateman struggles with the emotional side of life; constantly portraying an air of calmness and intellect.
Detective Donald Kimble (Dafoe) discusses the disappearance of Bateman's colleague, Paul Allen (Leto); who Bateman had murdered after feeling humiliated once seeing Allen's stylish business card. Can Bateman keep control of his murderous tendencies?
Simply put, Bale makes this film. It's said that during production DiCaprio was proposed to star as Bateman but due to fears of a teen audience flocking to an R-rated film, Bale was preferred (definitely for the best). Bale plays the cool, measured individual on the outside and tense, uncontrollable mess on the inside extremely well. Bateman is a man who can control almost every part of his life other than his murderous urges which Bale personifies.
Harron produces a film that is slick and thrilling, definitely managing to keep the audience engaged leading a character that resembles something of a modern day Alex DeLarge. I find that American Psycho keeps you thinking throughout and undoubtedly leaves you with discussion points.
I'd recommend it to those that don't mind a large helping of blood.
J.Henderson
7.5/10
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