CHAMP'S REVIEW OF:
AMERICAN PSYCHO (2000)

OPENING THOUGHTS

    I rented this movie when it was first released on video. I pretty much remember renting it somewhat on a fluke. I had read some stuff about American Psycho on the net. People said it was good, but they never said why, or even really described it, they just said "THIS MOVIE IS GOOD!". I convinced a friend that we should give it a shot, so we did. I had no idea what was in store for me. The film that unveiled itself before my viewing eyes... was like a beautiful flower... DRENCHED IN BLOOD! I know... that sounds weird... but if you watch this movie... that's exactly what it is. The horror of decadence in the 80’s.

ACTING

    CHRISTIAN BALE an excellent job. This guy deserves Batman! If you truly want to see Christian Bale's acting ability, watch this film. He's absolutely brilliant, and he's naked ladies! See?! This movie is great for guys and gals! Anyway... there's a ton of great dialogue and scenes where Bale just excels as his character, Patrick Bateman. If I were an actor, I would want to be half as good as Christian Bale.
    REESE WITHERSPOON is also in this movie... and I think this is probably the only movie I prefer her in. She does an excellent job of playing Bateman's fiancee, who's the snobby princess type. There's a scene between the two of them, that's just perfect... I can't say anymore, or I'd ruin it.
    WILLEM DAFOE makes an appearance, and he's his usual semi-creepy, but well acting self. I really like him as an actor, but damn if his grin doesn't make you feel uncomfortable. He's very peculiar looking... anyway, his character is a detective who's very mysterious, and you can never tell how much he knows, or if he's suspecting anyone. It adds a great element of suspense, that just makes you want to piss your pants in... suspense.

DIRECTION AND SCRIPT

    MARY HARRON directed the film, and she did a damn fine job. Her direction has a very precise and clean feeling to it. Nothing fancy, but it fits the story perfectly. She also extracted excellent performances out of all of the cast. This film, in my opinion, couldn't have been done better. There is also an R rated version, and a uncut version (the version I watched) and the only difference is that a threesome scene is a bit longer, but not by much. I'd recommend either version.
    MARY HARRON and GUINEVERE TURNER wrote the script based on Bret Easton Ellis' book. I've read the book, and it's far more graphic and detailed than the movie. The script, however, still encompasses the main points in the book, and the era of "Reganomics". Of course, they had to leave a bit of stuff out, but overall, I'd say it's a worthy book to film movie. Read the book if you want to get a more grisly look into Bateman's killings, but watch the movie if you hate reading.

THE VERDICT

    This movie was a like a breath of fresh air. It's definitely dark humor, so I don't recommend it for everyone. If you like dark humor, and aren't offended by brutal killings, I highly recommend this movie. If you're easily offended, and like movies that don't make you think, you probably won't like this movie. This movie, is one you can watch more than once, and still enjoy upon every viewing. My fiancee actually laughed at this movie, so some chicks out there may enjoy it also! Now if you'll excuse me, I have to return some videotapes...
 
 

RATING: A

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