American Psycho (2000)
“American Psycho” is a 2000 psychological horror film directed by Mary Harron, based on the novel of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. The film stars Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman, a wealthy and successful New York City investment banker who leads a double life as a brutal serial killer.
Set in the 1980s, the film explores themes of identity, materialism, and the moral decay of the era’s yuppie culture. Bateman meticulously maintains his outward appearance of a successful and sophisticated professional, while his inner life is filled with violent fantasies and murderous impulses.
His crimes escalate in brutality as he struggles to control his psychopathic tendencies.
The film features a strong supporting cast, including Willem Dafoe as Detective Donald Kimball, who is investigating the disappearance of one of Bateman’s colleagues; Jared Leto as Paul Allen, one of Bateman’s victims; and Reese Witherspoon as Bateman’s fiancée, Evelyn Williams.
“American Psycho” received critical acclaim for its satirical portrayal of the 1980s culture of excess, as well as for Bale’s intense and chilling performance. The film has since gained a cult following and is considered a sharp critique of the superficiality and moral bankruptcy of the era it depicts.
