In a Utopia, "South Park" vs. "Fight Club" for the Oscar

Rating: Null/10 (18 October 1999)

Mr. Fincher, Congratulations on another coup de gras that undoubtedly takes Hollywood by storm, and raises the blood pressure of the P.C. crowd. I can not comment on the truth to the novel as I have not read it. But the version I witnessed was mesmerizing. The two leads, ironically considered two of Hollywood's leading "Pretty Boys" turn in gritty, adept performances that certainly don't ring of "Pretty Boy". Helena Bonham Carter proves she'll do what a role calls for. The remainder of the prominent cast, in their small but important roles provide the necessary gung-ho to make this movie fly. If they remade "Terminal Man", they'd call it "Fight Club". As Brad Pitt calls in the trailer, "Fight Club" takes it up a notch. Those who criticize this movie for it's "brutality, glorification of violence, love of pain" are, I'm sure, the same individuals who looked the other way during "Private Ryan". The violence in this movie is pervasive and graphic. It is not, however, gratutitous or unnecessary. It sets a tone. Think "Clockwork Orange". The plot was NOT predictable, thereby thwarting the normal Hollywood method. I felt like I was watching the European "The Vanishing" when it all played out. And it made me smile and wince. Smile at the surprise, wince at the gripping story. Obviously, I thouroughly enjoyed this movie. And it is not often I think how I can't wait to see it again. To see how the director and cast obviously tipped their hand, and still left me in the dark.