American Psycho

American Psycho

Year: 2000

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Mary Harron

DramaThrillerCrime

In 1987 Manhattan, a charismatic yuppie, Patrick Bateman, harbors a dark secret: by night, he unleashes his gruesome impulses as a serial killer. As he navigates his dual lives, a cast of characters including a detective, fiancée, mistress, coworker, and secretary become entangled in his web of deceit.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen American Psycho yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – American Psycho (2000)
Explore the full timeline and setting of American Psycho (2000). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1987

The film takes place in 1987, a year marked by economic prosperity in the United States, particularly in urban centers like New York. This period is characterized by a consumerist culture, epitomized by excess and vanity, which is vividly reflected in the lives of the characters.

Location

New York

The movie is set in the bustling metropolis of New York City in the late 1980s, known for its vibrant cultural scene and affluence. It serves as a backdrop for the extravagant lifestyle of the protagonist, Patrick Bateman, showcasing the high-end dining and fashion trends of the era.

🏙️ City 🍽️ Dining

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Main Characters – American Psycho (2000)
Meet the key characters of American Psycho (2000), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale)

Patrick Bateman is a wealthy and superficial investment banker who leads a double life as a serial killer. His obsessive nature and detachment from reality exemplify the emptiness of his privileged existence, while his charm masks a sadistic and violent personality.

💼 Wealth 🔪 Psychopath

Evelyn

Evelyn is Patrick's girlfriend, embodying the vapid, superficial culture of the elite. She is often oblivious to Bateman's darker traits and remains preoccupied with her image and social status, highlighting the film's critique of materialistic values.

💄 Superficiality 💔 Romance

Timothy

Timothy is a colleague of Bateman's who becomes embroiled in a love triangle with Evelyn and Bateman. His character represents the shallow interactions among the wealthy elite, emphasizing the pervasive nature of infidelity and rivalry.

💼 Coworker 💔 Infidelity

Courtney

Courtney is Evelyn’s friend and Bateman's mistress, further complicating the tangled web of relationships. Her inclusion in the story highlights themes of betrayal and the superficial nature of romantic interactions in their social circle.

💋 Betrayal 💄 Vanity

Donald Kimball

Private detective Donald Kimball serves as an investigator during Bateman's unraveling. His presence escalates the tension, representing the looming threat of exposure as Bateman's violent deeds begin to catch up with him.

🔍 Investigation ⚖️ Justice

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Major Themes – American Psycho (2000)
Explore the central themes of American Psycho (2000), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💰 Materialism

The film strongly critiques materialism, depicting a world where individuals are consumed by their wealth and status. Patrick Bateman's obsession with designer clothing and opulent living illustrates the emptiness that often accompanies excessive wealth.

🩸 Violence

American Psycho explores the theme of violence, both physical and psychological, as Bateman's facade of normalcy masks his brutal impulses. The juxtaposition of his mundane lifestyle with horrific acts underscores the duality of human nature and societal indifference.

🤵 Identity

The protagonist's struggle with identity is central to the narrative, as Bateman presents a polished exterior while grappling with inner turmoil. His interactions and violent outbursts highlight a crisis of self, driven by societal expectations and personal dissatisfaction.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Similar Movies to American Psycho
Discover movies like American Psycho that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.