Highly amusing

Rating: 10/10 (6 October 2002)

Okay so it wasn't a patch on the book. As a movie and book buff I can safely say the only film I have ever seen which DID surpass the book was 'The Shawshank Redemption' and I don't think many would disagree. So I wasn't expecting this film to wow me as the book did - the book is a classic in every way and I've read it over ten times, one of my all time faves. The film simply cannot convey the depths of emptiness that Bateman has sunk to, though it still provides for a highly entertaining, funny and brilliantly acted piece of cinema.
Bale is perfect, Dafoe a pleasure (as always) and even Leto charmingly stupid. Witherspoon I can't stand and although this film did nothing to change that, I grudgingly admit she was perfect as Evelyn, though one has to wonder whether she was in on the joke.
As a black comedy, it's confusing - as a horror movie, it's too arty - as a psychological thriller, it's lost control - but as a movie, it's damn good. Just don't try to categorise it, and don't try too hard to analyse it. If that's what you're after, read the book (twice). Portraying modern society's undeniable emptiness and ultimate futility in two hours was never going to be easy, but if that's your cup of tea (it's certainly mine) then this is a great ride. For my money this is far better conveyed in the masterpiece 'Fight Club' but 'Psycho' is worth your time.