2000, R, 100 minutes

What do you do if you're a screenwriter hired to adapt a highly controversial and horrifying novel about a yuppie serial killer? Turn it into a black comedy, of course. As absurd as this may sound, American Psycho's adaptation to the format of film is actually quite successful.

Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale) is the definition of a yuppie, during the day at least. He dresses himself in the finest suits, uses an assortment of facial-cleansing creams, is up-to-date with the latest music, and makes extra sure to compare his new business-card with all of his associates. However, at night -- or at least the nights where he isn't dining at an expensive restaurant -- he becomes a vicious monster, killing people for the sheer pleasure of it. The story follows his life over a period of time, scrutinizing the yuppie lifestyle and somehow making us laugh on several occasions despite the countless murders.

The fact that a woman (Mary Harron) directed American Psycho is probably the reason it works as a film. What could have been turned into a disturbed socialite's wet dream was instead a satirical look at men in the 1980's, particularly one man who lets his primal urges take over completely. Yes, despite audiences being packed with members of the male sex, this film is really a feminist statement in disguise -- and an especially enjoyable one to moviegoers who are able recognize this. Many of the scenes are dripping with irony and one moment in which several characters compare and discuss business cards for at least two or three minutes is absolutely hilarious. There are a few miscasts in the film, but the direction is stylish and helps contribute to the overall feeling of chaos and hysteria. The ending is a bit muddled and can be taken in several different ways, which is either a huge flaw or a powerful story-element depending on whether or not it was intended -- I'm still a little uncertain about that.

Of all the essential pieces that contribute to American Psycho -- from the handling of the gruesome murders to the use of a black comedy theme -- none are more important than the film's lead actor, Christian Bale. Letting himself go completely, Bale excels in the role of Patrick Bateman, always maintaining a detached and nearly inhuman aura. The combination of a serious and over-the-top voice he uses during some of the descriptive narration is also a strong part of his performance, serving to set the tone for the entire film. The supporting cast doesn't really have a lot to do -- as Bale is the centerpiece of every scene -- although Reese Witherspoon and Chloe Sevigny were sufficient in their roles, as was Jared Leto.

American Psycho certainly has some flaws and is a bit muddled in parts, but the outstanding performance by Bale makes it worth while. If you're the kind of person who can laugh at something horrible and tend to enjoy black comedies, or if you're just looking for something different than the Hollywood-norm, I strongly recommend it.