All the things that make a story great

Rating: 8/10 (14 April 2000)

In the reviews that I have read on this film already, one thing is for certain: people are either going to hate or love this movie. I fall into the latter category.
Let me make it clear that I have not read the book. I feel at a disadvantage, because the book would obviously offer more insight into the mind of Patrick Bateman. However, this is the impression that I received from the movie.
I found that the plot and dialogue was very rich in satire and irony. I saw the movie a certain way through most of the film, finding my self sympathetic toward the character of Bateman. And then, suddenly, the viewpoint changes, and I felt as if I had been completely led astray to consider the actual content of the plot.
Most people find that the book/film is a comment on our society. I had a different impression. Watching this movie made me consider its face value in depth: a tale of a psychopath, trying to control urges and emotions of greed and disgust because they aren't socially acceptable. Bateman is worried to death about not being assimilated into a society that condemns the kind of person that he is. His murders are fabrications of his mind and a devious plan that can never come to fruition because it will prevent him from living life as a "normal" human being. Bateman's internal battle is brought to life majestically on screen. The movie does not go for shock value along the lines of gore and scenes that make the audience shield their eyes in disgust. This works well because the point of the story is reinforced, refusing to be buried under clichÃ©s, and is portrayed by scenes of sadistic humour and strong foreshadowing.
Great job by all actors concerned, Christian Bale in particular. 8/10