A reminder that this isn’t my personal list but the continuation of a data crunching project I did for another company to create the definitive ranked list of Horror/Thrillers where the titles can rise as gems are discovered and fall as they’re re-evaluated. This is to set up that I don’t personally love American Psycho. While there are parts I like quite a bit I would never rank it this high up. It’s similar to Jennifer’s Body, another sophisticated satire that has risen in esteem in recent years. The cerebral comedy doesn’t play well with the blunt force violence. I’ve rewatched both films recently and can see what they’re going for. It’s just not working for me.
So what do I like about American Psycho? Christian Bale is incredible as Patrick Bateman. This is where I first took notice that he would become one of the best actors of his generation. I like the way he works himself up to commit these horrible acts and how easily he blends back in with all the other investment bankers. I like everyone comparing their business cards in such loving detail and they’re all black letters on a white card. I like that things get so out of hand that the film does a tonal disconnect where we no longer know if we’re watching reality or Patrick’s fantasy life.
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