Episode 108 : American Psycho

This slyly executed, savage satire of a serial killer losing touch with reality was plagued with controversy from its original conception. Even now, the pathology of AMERICAN PSYCHO continues to spark dialogue with its entertaining critique of society & obsession, comic irony & why it remains relevant over 20 years later. Let’s peel back the mask & unveil truth behind this multifaceted, yet often misunderstood film.

 //***Discussions include***\\ Background on Bret Easton Ellis’ contentious novel; early script variations, selling the story & searching for a director; Mary Harron & Guinevere Turner adapting the novel into a sharp & clear-headed, contemplative screenplay; tonal shifts, interpreting dark comedy & satire, recurring themes & the film’s climax; reflecting 80s culture & music choices; main cast discussion & intense struggle over casting the lead, plus release & reception. Christian Bale, Willem Defoe, Cara Seymour & Chloë Sevigny star in AMERICAN PSYCHO (2000) /// Directed by Mary Harron. //***Picks of the Week***\\ • Lindsay’s Pick: DERANGED (1974). Roberts Blossom, Leslie Carlson, Marian Waldman, Micki Moore /// Directed by Alan Ormsby & Jeff Gillen. • Justin’s Pick: RAMPAGE (1987). Michael Biehn, Alex McArthur, Deborah Van Valkenburgh, Grace Zabriskie/ / Directed by William Friedkin. //***MurrayMoment***\\ Comparing the stark differences on conformity between Bill & Patrick Bateman.  //***Final Thoughts on the Music of AMERICAN PSYCHO ***\\ Next Episode: TEEN WOLF (1985) • Please rate, review & subscribe. • Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube. • Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com [e-mail] Be Kind and Rewatch // August 15th, 2023.