In this episode, our friend Esmé Weijun Wang joins us to talk about American Psycho. They reminisce about watching the movie with their mother, discuss Christian Bale's career, and share the disturbing experience of reading the book. They analyze the characters and themes in the film, explore the ambiguity of Patrick's feelings, and discuss the importance of recognition and loneliness. They also appreciate the guest and producer of the podcast.
Patrick Bateman's obsession with materialism and brand names serves as a mask for his inner darkness, highlighting the theme of identity crisis.
American Psycho's dark humor has been widely appreciated, but perhaps not fully understood until years after its release, and it uses violence against women to shock and elicit discomfort, rather than glorify or romanticize such acts.
American Psycho remains relevant as it represents the dangerous combination of unchecked privilege, toxic masculinity, and the quest for external validation through material possessions, serving as a cautionary tale.
Deep dives
Patrick Bateman's Double Life and Identity Crisis
In the podcast episode, the hosts discuss Patrick Bateman, the main character in American Psycho, who leads a double life as a successful investment banker and a serial killer. The hosts explore Bateman's obsession with materialism and brand names, which serve as a mask for his inner darkness. They highlight the theme of identity crisis, as Bateman struggles to differentiate between his true self and the facade he presents to the world. The podcast delves into how Bateman's obsession with image and status reflects the excess and superficiality of 1980s New York society.
The Satirical Nature and Dark Humor of American Psycho
The podcast episode delves into the satirical and comedic aspects of American Psycho, despite it being known for its psychological horror. It uncovers how the film's dark humor has been widely appreciated, but perhaps not fully understood until years after its release. The hosts highlight Christian Bale's performance as Patrick Bateman, particularly his portrayal of the perplexed and seemingly emotionless killer. They also discuss the role of violence against women in the movie, with its explicit and disturbing scenes intended to shock and elicit discomfort, rather than glorify or romanticize such acts.
The Relevance of American Psycho in Today's Culture
The podcast episode explores the continued relevance of American Psycho, noting how the character of Patrick Bateman has become somewhat of an archetype for certain online personas. The hosts discuss how Bateman represents the dangerous combination of unchecked privilege, toxic masculinity, and the quest for external validation through material possessions. They also emphasize the cautionary tale aspect of the film, underscoring the need for society to acknowledge and address the underlying issues that can lead to the emergence of individuals like Patrick Bateman. Overall, the episode highlights the timeless themes and social commentary present in American Psycho, making it a thought-provoking and relevant film even in today's culture.
The Themes of Isolation and Loneliness
The podcast explores the theme of isolation and loneliness in the world of American Psycho. It delves into the idea that despite their wealth and success, the characters in the story are ultimately disconnected from one another. The main character, Patrick Bateman, experiences a deep sense of loneliness and seeks connection through acts of violence and manipulation. The podcast discusses how this theme of isolation reflects larger societal issues and the pervasive loneliness that many people experience in the modern world. The podcast also examines the role of social status and material wealth in perpetuating this sense of isolation and the impact it has on individuals and their relationships.
The Analysis of the 80s and America's Priorities
The podcast episode delves into the analysis of the 80s and how American Psycho comments on the priorities and values of that era. It highlights the excessive materialism and self-obsession of the characters, examining the ways in which wealth and success become the sole markers of status and happiness. The podcast discusses the critique of American society's focus on surface appearances and the pursuit of wealth, at the expense of true human connection and empathy. It also reflects on the continued relevance of these themes in modern society, where the pursuit of success and material wealth still reign supreme.
We have to return some videotapes! In which we talk about yuppies, Patrick Bateman as proto-influencer and American Psycho with our friend Esmé Weijun Wang.
