What I've Learned From American Psycho: by Topher
Written
on 18/4/08
As a new writer for KillerFilm.com, I figured it would be appropriate to kick things off by writing about my favorite “killer” film.
Mary Harron’s “American Psycho” has touched the hearts of many with its warm Christmas setting and witty banter among its characters. It is a film about friendship and self-appreciation. Patrick Bateman is an inspirational role model to be learned from. He is successful, he has a hobby, and he certainly has a way with the ladies. There is much to learn from Mr. Bateman and I wish to share what I’ve learned with you, the reader.
1. Help your fellow man
Patrick comes across a homeless man and his dog, and offers him advice, which the man graciously accepts. However, the advice quickly becomes trivial in the homeless man’s eyes and Patrick has to snap him back to reality.
2. Be cultured in various art forms
Patrick Bateman is an avid fan of modern music. Whether it’s Huey Lewis and the News or Whitney Houston, he has much information to offer the non-privy. He likes to share his knowledge, knowing that his teaching will reach a learning audience.
3. Stay dedicated and you will reach your goals
When a female friend of his wants to go home, Patrick doesn’t want the night to end. He does what he can to get her to stay. He tries to nibble on her ankle, which can be assumed to be her sweet spot, but to no avail. As she is running down the spiral staircase, there is only one way that Patrick can reach her. He stays determined and patient, and in the end, he succeeds.
4. Share and receive ideas from co-workers
When Patrick and his co-workers share with each other their new business cards, he takes a great interest in Paul Allen’s card. Perhaps he has been inspired to update his own card further.
5. If your relationship has lost its spark, free yourself
Patrick sadly lost all remaining interest in his girlfriend, Evelyn. Rather than kid himself and trudge through a relationship that is going nowhere, Patrick takes a stands and lets her down gently, if not a little erratic. Understandably Evelyn takes the news a tad harshly, but Patrick is set on seeking other endeavors.
6. Share your hobbies with others and don’t exclude anybody
Patrick Bateman has a hobby. Of course, it isn’t a hobby that many take part in, but it’s a good notion to share with others. Toward the end of the film, Patrick runs about town, sharing his hobby. Upon leaving a building through the revolving door, Patrick glances back and notices that he has excluded the janitor. Patrick then U-turns in the door and includes him.
7. Stay in touch with old friends, but don’t deviate from current schedules
Patrick runs into his friend, Victoria, at the dry cleaner. He is interested in catching up with her, but has a tight schedule. He leaves in a hurry, but still manages to promise that he’ll call her.
8. Stay tidy
Whether it’s expected or not, you may come across having a mess in your apartment. Patrick knows this and plans ahead by laying some newspaper down.
9. Always make reservations
This one is quite self-explanatory.
10. Have a routine
The best way to start off every morning is to start the same way. Practice a very detailed routine. Do not deviate from it. Like Patrick, make the mundane tasks of your day habitual. Practice proper hygiene and keep up with your exercise and you, too, can be as successful as Patrick Bateman.
Mary Harron’s “American Psycho” has touched the hearts of many with its warm Christmas setting and witty banter among its characters. It is a film about friendship and self-appreciation. Patrick Bateman is an inspirational role model to be learned from. He is successful, he has a hobby, and he certainly has a way with the ladies. There is much to learn from Mr. Bateman and I wish to share what I’ve learned with you, the reader.
1. Help your fellow man
Patrick comes across a homeless man and his dog, and offers him advice, which the man graciously accepts. However, the advice quickly becomes trivial in the homeless man’s eyes and Patrick has to snap him back to reality.
2. Be cultured in various art forms
Patrick Bateman is an avid fan of modern music. Whether it’s Huey Lewis and the News or Whitney Houston, he has much information to offer the non-privy. He likes to share his knowledge, knowing that his teaching will reach a learning audience.
3. Stay dedicated and you will reach your goals
When a female friend of his wants to go home, Patrick doesn’t want the night to end. He does what he can to get her to stay. He tries to nibble on her ankle, which can be assumed to be her sweet spot, but to no avail. As she is running down the spiral staircase, there is only one way that Patrick can reach her. He stays determined and patient, and in the end, he succeeds.
4. Share and receive ideas from co-workers
When Patrick and his co-workers share with each other their new business cards, he takes a great interest in Paul Allen’s card. Perhaps he has been inspired to update his own card further.
5. If your relationship has lost its spark, free yourself
Patrick sadly lost all remaining interest in his girlfriend, Evelyn. Rather than kid himself and trudge through a relationship that is going nowhere, Patrick takes a stands and lets her down gently, if not a little erratic. Understandably Evelyn takes the news a tad harshly, but Patrick is set on seeking other endeavors.
6. Share your hobbies with others and don’t exclude anybody
Patrick Bateman has a hobby. Of course, it isn’t a hobby that many take part in, but it’s a good notion to share with others. Toward the end of the film, Patrick runs about town, sharing his hobby. Upon leaving a building through the revolving door, Patrick glances back and notices that he has excluded the janitor. Patrick then U-turns in the door and includes him.
7. Stay in touch with old friends, but don’t deviate from current schedules
Patrick runs into his friend, Victoria, at the dry cleaner. He is interested in catching up with her, but has a tight schedule. He leaves in a hurry, but still manages to promise that he’ll call her.
8. Stay tidy
Whether it’s expected or not, you may come across having a mess in your apartment. Patrick knows this and plans ahead by laying some newspaper down.
9. Always make reservations
This one is quite self-explanatory.
10. Have a routine
The best way to start off every morning is to start the same way. Practice a very detailed routine. Do not deviate from it. Like Patrick, make the mundane tasks of your day habitual. Practice proper hygiene and keep up with your exercise and you, too, can be as successful as Patrick Bateman.
