The most underrated film of 1999

Rating: 8/10 (20 May 2002)

The one word to describe my emotions at the end of watching Fight Club was breathless. A wonderful cinematic experience and a movie that worked on so many levels. While the director David Fincher was famously called by Roger Ebert `a visual virtuoso'(which is correct), this film stretches much farther than clever camera shots and sharp editing. It tells a story that strikes a stunning resonant chord with anyone who is dissatisfied with their station in life (about 90% of the world's population). The story of a supressed American society is one that could have failed miserably but succeeded perfectly because of the superb quality of the acting.
Ed Norton was blind robbed of an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Jack, the protagonist, or antagonist, depending how you view the film. His initial disillusionment which leads to his eventual violent acts is so credible and he switches his emotions with ease. Brad Pitt was equally effective as Tyler Durden, who awakes Jack from his slumber from society. I am not Pitt's biggest fan but he shines in these types of roles. As he showed in `Ocean's Eleven' Pitt is Hollywood's best sidekick. Helena Bonham Carter should also be commended in her performance as Marla Singer as she doesn't simply represent a banal love interest and (despite her dreadful Scottish accent in `Women Talking Dirty') gives a convincing American accent.
What makes this movie one of the best I have ever seen is its accessibility. Despite the fact I am an 18 year old from South London even I could relate in ways to both Jack and Tyler. Fight Club represents a slap in the face to capatalist society as a whole, while Jack's and Tyler's actions at the end of the film are unlikely to be replicated, the feeling of incontentment is a theme rife throughout the Western world. If only more films like Fincher's masterpiece were made then something might be done about it.