American Psycho: A Shocking and Unforgettable Masterwork | Vintage Contemporaries

Bret Easton Ellis's American Psycho

American Psycho is a novel by Bret Easton Ellis that was first published in 1991. The novel tells the story of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker who lives in New York City and is secretly a serial killer. The novel was controversial upon its release, with many critics condemning its violence and misogyny. However, it has since become a cult classic, and is considered one of the most important novels of the 1990s.

American Psycho (Vintage Contemporaries)

by Bret Easton Ellis

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2346 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	418 pages

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The novel is written in a first-person perspective from the point of view of Bateman. Bateman is a narcissistic and materialistic man who is obsessed with his appearance and status. He is also a misogynist and a homophobe. Bateman's inner monologue is full of dark humor and satire, and he often makes observations about the superficiality and emptiness of the New York City elite.

The novel's plot follows Bateman as he goes about his daily life, which is filled with violence and murder. Bateman kills a variety of people, including his co-workers, his friends, and his family. He also tortures and rapes his victims. The novel's violence is graphic and disturbing, and it is clear that Bateman is a deeply disturbed individual.

Despite its disturbing subject matter, American Psycho is a well-written and thought-provoking novel. Ellis's writing is sharp and witty, and he creates a vivid and unforgettable portrait of Bateman. The novel is also a indictment of the materialism and excess of the 1980s. Ellis shows how the pursuit of wealth and status can lead to a loss of humanity.

American Psycho is not for everyone. It is a violent and disturbing novel that is likely to offend some readers. However, it is a brilliantly written and thought-provoking work of literature that is sure to stay with you long after you finish it.

Critical Reception

American Psycho was met with mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the novel's dark humor and satire, while others condemned its violence and misogyny. The novel was banned in several countries, and it was the subject of a number of protests. However, the novel has since become a cult classic, and is considered one of the most important novels of the 1990s.

The novel has been praised by a number of prominent writers, including Norman Mailer, Salman Rushdie, and J.G. Ballard. Mailer called the novel "a masterpiece of black comedy," and Rushdie said that it was "a brilliant and disturbing novel that will stay with you long after you finish it." Ballard said that the novel was "a major work of literature that will be read and discussed for many years to come."

However, the novel has also been criticized by a number of critics. Some critics have accused Ellis of glorifying violence and misogyny. Others have said that the novel is simply too disturbing and graphic. Despite the criticism, American Psycho remains a popular and influential novel.

Film Adaptation

In 2000, American Psycho was adapted into a film directed by Mary Harron. The film starred Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered one of the best film adaptations of a novel.

The film is faithful to the novel, and it captures the novel's dark humor and satire. Bale gives a tour-de-force performance as Bateman, and he brings the character to life in a truly unforgettable way. The film is also visually stunning, and it creates a vivid and unforgettable portrait of Bateman's world.

The film has been praised by a number of critics, including Roger Ebert, who said that it was "a brilliant and disturbing film." The film has also been praised by Bret Easton Ellis, who said that it was "the best adaptation of any of my books." American Psycho is a must-see for fans of the novel and for fans of film noir.

American Psycho is a shocking and unforgettable masterwork. It is a novel that will stay with you long after you finish it. If you are looking for a challenging and thought-provoking read, then I highly recommend this novel.

American Psycho (Vintage Contemporaries)

by Bret Easton Ellis

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2346 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	418 pages

FREE