Any notion i had that acting was a lightweight profession

Rating: 10/10 (18 August 2005)

was permanently put to rest by Christian Bales as "The Machinist". This incredible evocation by Bales, including the astounding level of commitment and effort put into this role renders insufficient the standard Hollywood superlatives. I've seen, more serendipitously than by choice, all Bale's other works. This film and his work in it are in a different galaxy. Not a film for everyone; extremely intense and dark. But very brilliant and Bales delivers one of the best performances i have ever seen in 40 years or more as an avid movie fan. Set design, make-up, supporting work all compliment a compelling vision of inner conflict in search of resolution. It's wonderfully directed and a very creative work on its own, but with Bale's performance this is a must-see for all serious film lovers.