Stylish

Rating: 9/10 (6 February 2001)

Having started reading the novel "American Psycho" by Bret Easton Ellis and given up, I decided to let the wonder that is cinema finish the story for me. Having seen the film, I've now re-started the book.
This film, although slightly ambiguous at times, was a real surprise. Christian Bale was excellent as the Patrick Bateman, the fictitious Wall Street killer from the book. Mary Harron wisely decided not to show the graphic crimes described in the book, instead opting to suggest acts have taken place and leave the details up to the imagination of the viewer. This is a far more effective method of telling the story and avoiding controversy, imaging how this film would've turned out if Paul Verhoeven or someone similar had directed.
Despite the rather grim subject matter, there is plenty of black humor in this film - Patrick Bateman asking a hooker if she takes a credit card - for example.
The music and visual style of the film are good, there are plenty of tracks from the eighties, we're also treated to some highly amusing views on the music of the era from Bateman.
This film is very enjoyable and, although the ending will not satisfy everyone, it is well worth watching.
9/10