An incredible thrill ride

Rating: 9/10 (25 May 2016)

There is a lot to be handed in this dark, atmospheric adaption of Chuck Palahniuk's novel. Ranging from the visceral storytelling, rollicking screenplay, and the mind-stunning flair of David Fincher's directing flair, this brooding tale stars Edward Norton and Brad Pitt in a psychological thriller that packs load of thrills and engrossing narrative substance while generating a powerful social message about violence in society. The film initially faced polarizing reception by critics for what was originally interpreted as an a glorification of brutal violence and moral ambiguity but was later redeemed by a wide acclaimed cult status, soon becoming one of the most talked-about (and controversial) films of 1999. Edward Norton plays an unnamed protagonist, a disillusioned white-collar worker who suffers from insomniac and finds nowhere to turn from his bored life. This is until he seeks therapy from not a sleep therapist but a support group of unfortunate men with testicular cancer, despite not having such. His time there helps him deal with his mental and emotional health, and it is all ruined when he is visited by mysterious woman Marla Singer (played by Helena Bonham Carter) and unintentionally exposes him. Soon, the protagonist befriends with an anarchistic soap salesman Tyler Durden (played by Brad Pitt) who he partners with open up an underground fight club where two competitors engage in a no- holds-barred hand-to-combat in front of the large crowd as a mean of therapy. However, as the club grows popular, it ignites to a widespread anarchy that leads to the protagonist discovering Tyler's more sinister plot.
This David Fincher thriller packs a serious punch and leaves quite an impact from its excess of not only its gripping story but thrills that go beyond what anyone can label conventional. It all begins with the atmospheric visuals punctuated throughout each scene to symbolize a society on the brink of collapse. But there is much more to offer. The story bogs down into a gritty, hyperkinetic crime-thriller sparked by bold machismo elements delivered by scenes of brutal, cringe-inducing fist fights resulting in bloodshed, and a gripping message about the effects of violence in our society. The film takes on a mission to show violence not as a grueling recreational activity but a means of letting out the characters' inner demons. From there on, the plot builds up through a dark, visceral journey, leading up to a shocking revelation that is bound leave viewers stunned, though not as haunting as the finale to David Fincher's 'Seven'. And what comes of this masterful experience, deserves a strong memorable cast, an element the film greatly achieves. Edward Norton stands strong in his role as the central character, conceiving pure likability in his largely naive character battling against the moral ambiguity that threatens to tear him apart. Helena Bonham Carter is also quite resourceful in arguably one of her most memorable roles. But the biggest appeal arrives of course, from Brad Pitt as the anarchistic Tyler Durden. Though his character may give off a disconcerting vibe, Pitt delivers a performance that can be described as darkly funny and oddly charismatic, leading to what is by far one of the powerful performances of his career.
Fight Club is an incredible experience put together by the astounding mind of director David Fincher. Full of thrills, visceral themes, and overall surprising social commentary; this film puts on a stunning cinematic thrill ride that's not easily forgotten. Though the violent material and gritty anti-social theme are enough to push sensitive viewers away, it's not easy to deny this packs a punch.