Very fine Hitchcock pastiche.

Rating: 8/10 (13 April 2005)

It's been a few days since I've seen this and it's still rolling around in my mind which is a good sign. Obviously there are parallels to other movies. if only films own posters had the same spoiler-warning ethos this site has. The friend who I saw it with had seen the words "Fight Club" on the poster and consequently got the idea much earlier than i did, which I think is a shame. This is the kind of movie that if you saw it on a transatlantic flight at three in the morning with no hype or spoilers would really give you the creeps. SPOILER The final reveal is a little underpowered, perhaps, although seeing Bale suddenly back with flesh on his bones was oddly shocking. And there was plenty that was worth it - as well as Bale's extraordinary body and equally fat-free acting, there was a terrific sense of Hitchcock pastiche (especially, as noted, in the driving sequences) and a bravely depressing palate. SPOILER COMING UPThe blood in the fridge, which seemed to puzzle someone - unpaid utilities bill, power cut off, fishing trip haul thaws out.
Now, if only I could work out why I have an occasional need to get a bit drunk...